Governor's Awards
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
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.
Read More2024 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
Read More2024 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
Read More2024 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
Read More2024 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
Read More2024 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
Read More2024 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
Read More2024 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
Read More2024 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
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