Denver Arts & Venues accepting nominations and applications to honor those who have made significant contributions to Denver’s cultural scene
Denver Arts & Venues opens applications and nominations for the Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture to recognize programs, individuals and organizations that make significant and lasting contributions to the artistic, cultural and creative landscape in the City and County of Denver. This year, Arts & Venues has increased the stipend to winners from $1,000 to $2,500 and added a new category to recognize those who focus on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) through their work.
“We have seen the cultural landscape shift over the past two years, and we want to honor those who have shifted with it,” explained Arts & Venues executive director Ginger White Brunetti. “The Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture recognize those who continue to connect meaningfully to the community through the arts, and those who are dedicated to justice and equity through their creative programs.”
Nominations are being accepted through Oct. 3 and applications are being accepted through Oct. 10 for the following categories:
ARTS & CULTURE YOUTH AWARD
This award is presented to a person under 24 who has made a noteworthy difference in the community through the arts or an organization that has significantly impacted the lives of youth in the City and County of Denver through the arts.
ARTS & CULTURE IMPACT AWARD
This award is presented to an individual or an organization that has made a significant and lasting impact on arts and culture in the City and County of Denver. This category requires that the nominee have at least 10 years of history in the arts in the City and County of Denver.
ARTS & CULTURE INNOVATION AWARD
This award is presented to an individual or organization that has found innovative and creative ways to make meaningful connections with community or partner with others through arts & culture during 2020 and 2021 – a time of shutdowns and social distancing.
ARTS & CULTURE JEDI AWARD
This award is presented to an individual or organization that has focused on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) through their work. Nominees for this award may have: worked to integrate an equity practice into their operations, developed a specific program the supports communities that have been historically marginalized including people of color, people with disabilities or LGBTQIA+, presented an event centered in social justice and the arts, or may be able to demonstrate commitments and authentic partnerships with historically under-resourced communities.
Individuals may nominate an individual or organization through a simple form and Arts & Venues will follow up with the nominee for more information. Alternatively, individuals and groups may apply for an award directly.
The award winners will be announced in December.
Additional information is available online:
Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture Details
Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture Application