Danielle Brazell, Executive Director at California Arts Council

Appointed by Governor Newsom in December 2023, Danielle Brazell leads California’s state agency for the arts with a visionary belief in the arts as vital civic infrastructure—driving equity, belonging, health, and economic opportunity state‑wide. A seasoned public‑sector arts leader with over 30 years’ experience, she transformed the LA Department of Cultural Affairs into a powerhouse—expanding its budget, scale, and statewide influence—and steered Arts for LA into a robust advocacy force for the region. A practicing artist, educator, and strategist, Brazell also brings insights from roles as consultant, teaching artist, and board member for DataArts, Americans for the Arts, and the World Cities Culture Forum. Her leadership is grounded in lived creative practice—from early apprenticeship at Highways Performance Space to building inclusive public arts infrastructure across communities.