Pacific Arts Movement Executive Director Alex Villafuerte Appointed to San Diego County Arts and Culture Commission

Pacific Arts Movement (Pac Arts), presenter of the San Diego Asian Film Festival, announced that Executive Director Alex Villafuerte has been appointed to the San Diego County Arts and Culture Commission.

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved Villafuerte’s appointment on August 18, 2026, to serve in Seat 5 through January 8, 2029. His appointment was recommended by San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair Terra Lawson-Remer.

Villafuerte joins the Commission at a significant moment for public investment in San Diego County’s creative sector. Earlier this year, the County Board of Supervisors approved the Investing in San Diego County Arts and Culture Initiative, providing for up to $2.75 million in arts and culture investments, including $2.25 million in ongoing annual funding.

“I am deeply honored to serve on the San Diego County Arts and Culture Commission at such an important time for arts and culture in our region,” said Villafuerte. “The County is making a meaningful commitment to artists and communities, and I look forward to contributing to the Commission’s work and supporting efforts that expand access, opportunity and visibility for arts and culture across San Diego County.”

Villafuerte has served as Executive Director of Pacific Arts Movement since 2023, leading the organization’s work to expand representation, support Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander artists and storytellers, and increase access to media arts. Pac Arts is currently preparing for the 27th San Diego Asian Film Festival, taking place November 5–14, 2026, one of the largest showcases of Asian and Asian American cinema in North America.

“Throughout his career, and long before joining Pacific Arts Movement, Alex has demonstrated a deep commitment to San Diego’s communities,” said Alex Yamashiro, Pac Arts Board Chair. “For a decade, he has worked across organizations, communities and sectors to support arts and culture, expand opportunity and help ensure that people from many different backgrounds have a voice in the civic and cultural life of our region. His appointment to the County Arts and Culture Commission is a natural extension of that work, and we are incredibly proud to see him bring that experience and perspective to this important role.”

Villafuerte will serve alongside commissioners from across the region in supporting the growth and vitality of San Diego County’s diverse arts and culture communities.

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