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Governor's Awards

Nominations open for 2025 Governor’s Awards in the Arts 

The Kentucky Arts Council is accepting nominations through May 31 for the 2025 Governor’s Awards in the Arts.  The awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made extraordinary and significant contributions to the arts in Kentucky. The nomination process is coordinated by the arts council, and more information about the process is available here: https://artscouncil.ky.gov/program/governors-award-in-the-arts-nominations/  … Continued

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Nominations open for 2025 Governor’s Awards in the Arts 

The Kentucky Arts Council is accepting nominations through May 31 for the 2025 Governor’s Awards in the Arts.  The awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made extraordinary and significant contributions to the arts in Kentucky. The nomination process is coordinated by the arts council, and more information about the process is available here.  Eligibility … Continued

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2024 National Award: Tyler Childers

Childers’ deep-rooted connection to his home state significantly influences his songwriting, often exploring themes related to coal mining—an homage to his father's profession—and shedding light on the experiences of communities in eastern Kentucky.

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2024 Media Award: Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

2024 Media Award: Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

Coverage and promotion of the local arts community has long been a priority of the Messenger-Inquirer, and they continue to maintain a reporter dedicated to the coverage of the arts. 

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2024 Government Award: Carl M. Brashear Radcliff Veterans Center

The Carl M. Brashear Radcliff Veterans Center is dedicated to serving Kentucky’s veterans by fostering independence, preserving dignity, and providing compassionate care. Located in Radcliff, Kentucky, this state veterans home features 120 beds and operates under the Community Living Center (CLC) model, offering all private suites with private baths. The facility is designed with a … Continued

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2024 Folk Heritage Award: Cheryl Pan

Cheryl Pan is a distinguished dance artist renowned for her extensive professional training in Chinese classical and folk dances. After years of rigorous training in China, she has dedicated her career to teaching various Chinese ethnic dances, many of which are rarely seen in the United States. Pan has taught hundreds of children and adults … Continued

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2024 Education Award: The Louisville Academy of Music

The Louisville Academy of Music has made a lasting impact on the musical landscape of the city, teaching music to thousands of students over its 70 years. Founded in 1954 by Robert French, the Louisville Academy of Music began in an apartment on Bardstown Road, offering vocal and instrumental lessons. The Academy later moved to … Continued

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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

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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

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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

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