Sofia Klatzker Named Cultural Affairs Manager of Santa Monica

Klatzker to replace Shannon Daut in role to oversee arts, culture and creative policies in the City

Sofia Klatzker has been appointed as the new Cultural Affairs Manager of the City of Santa Monica.

“The City of Santa Monica has a wonderful history of artistic expression, strong leadership and a deeply engaged arts community. I am thrilled to be joining the Community Services Department and the Cultural Affairs Division team,” Klatzker said. The City’s commitment to ensuring that arts and culture will thrive in the future is impressive and I appreciate that the arts are seen as a platform for celebration, healing, learning and economic stability. I look forward to being of service and working with the local arts community, the Arts Commission and staff to continue to embed arts and culture across all aspects of life in Santa Monica.”

Klatzker comes to the city having held positions at many institutions and organizations including the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, Arts for LA, Sirius XM/Stitcher/99% Invisible, and most recently vice president of strategy for Award-winning podcast 99% Invisible.

Klatzker, who holds a Masters in Arts Administration from Goucher College and Bachelor of Music from Oberlin College, and is set to begin her new role on May 8. In this capacity she will collaborate with city staff, along with the Arts Commission and community members, to further cultivate cultural, creative and arts policies that play a huge role in shaping Santa Monica’s character.

“Sofia has a rich and diverse background in leading and producing arts programming, advocating for and supporting arts and cultural organizations, arts education and cultural equity and inclusion,” said Acting Director of Community Services Danielle Noble. “She has served on local and State arts and culture councils and boards, is wellversed in governmental, non-profit and private operations and is passionate about creating innovative arts and culture experiences and