Thomas Fire: Reflections

This exhibit documents Ventura County’s most devastating natural disaster through the experiences of the community.

Thomas Fire: Reflections marks the one-year anniversary of the county’s most destructive fire, sharing stories of heroism, sacrifice and tragedy through photos, videos, artifacts and personal anecdotes.  The Thomas Fire lit the night sky on Dec. 4, 2017 and burned uncontained for 40 days, becoming the largest fire in California’s recorded history.

“As we did during the fire, the Museum hopes to offer a gathering place for the community to support one another, listen to stories and record their own, view artwork inspired by the event and artifacts collected from affected residents,” said Elena Brokaw, Barbara Barnard Smith executive director.

The exhibit will feature a video by filmmaker and Ventura resident Rick Ray, along with videos, photos and stories collected by the Museum of Ventura County and CAPS Media. There will be an opportunity for community members to record their experiences if they have not already. Included in the exhibit is artwork inspired by the events, with some including actual charred remnants left behind by the devastation.

“Collecting, recording and preserving local history is one of the most valuable assets the Museum of Ventura County provides to the community,” said Anna Bermudez, museum curator. “Visitors will experience local residents’ stories of the fire that have been shared with us over the past year.”

Thomas Fire: Reflections is on display in the Museum of Ventura County’s Community Gallery through February 24, 2019.