Governor’s Derby Exhibit is now open!

The 2025 Governor’s Derby Exhibit is now open in the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort. The work of 44 artists from across Kentucky, curated by the Kentucky Arts Council, will be on display through May 29. The exhibit, which carries the theme “Spring is Here,” opened April 30. Visiting hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. … Continued

Kentucky Touring Grant application now open

The Kentucky Arts Council is accepting applications for the FY2026 Kentucky Touring Grant (KYT), a matching grant supporting public performances statewide. The grant helps presenters book performers from the council’s Performing Artists Directory. 

Free Webinar! Confidently Teaching Creativity

Feb. 27, 2025, 10 a.m. Eastern  Discover the process of creating impactful art experiences in schools. Artist Grace Henderson will share her journey of becoming a Kentucky Arts Council teaching artist, and the many things she has learned along the way. Topics will include building connections with educators, designing effective lesson plans, preparing for a residency day, and managing the operational tasks of running a small business. About the Presenter Grace Henderson lives … Continued

Press Release: 28 New Artists Join the Kentucky Crafted Program 

Team Kentucky has accepted 28 new artists into its prestigious Kentucky Crafted program.

June 2024 Board Minutes

2024 Community Arts Award – Individual: Jeffrey A. Reed

Jeffrey A. Reed, music director of Orchestra Kentucky since its founding in 2000, blends classical and popular music, creating authentic experiences that celebrate the soundtracks of music’s greatest decades. His programming spans from the 17th century to the present, honoring milestones and anniversaries of composers such as Beethoven, Mahler, and Stravinsky, alongside icons like Elvis, … Continued

2024 Community Arts Award – Organization: Yes Arts

Founded in 2016, Yes Arts is a community-focused organization dedicated to providing high-quality, low-cost, or subsidized arts programming. By partnering with local artists and community organizations, Yes Arts aims to mobilize the power of community and the arts to disrupt the cycle of addiction and support those at risk of substance use disorders. Yes Arts … Continued

2024 Artist Award: Gregory Turay

Internationally acclaimed tenor Gregory Turay has captivated audiences around the globe with his powerful voice and remarkable artistry. With a career spanning over 20 years, Turay has earned some of the highest accolades in the opera world, establishing himself as a leading figure in the genre. Turay’s repertoire includes many of opera’s most beloved roles, … Continued

2024 Milner Award: Mark Lenn Johnson

Mark Lenn Johnson is the president of Art Inc. Kentucky, a nonprofit arts incubator dedicated to supporting emerging artists across the state. Under his leadership, Art Inc. has transformed from a visionary concept into a thriving brick-and-mortar reality in Lexington’s East End. The organization provides professional development assistance, offering entrepreneurial classes covering a range of … Continued

2024 Award Artist: Yoko Nogami

The 2024 Governor Awards in the Arts commissioned artworks were created by Yoko Nogami, an interdisciplinary artist born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. Currently residing in Letcher County, Kentucky, she is a prominent advocate for arts education and accessibility. Nogami serves as the Cultural Arts & Education Director with Cowan Community Action Group, Inc., while … Continued