Mayor Mike Johnston speaks at a Mayor's Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture luncheon - Photo Bear Gutierrez
Since 1986, the Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture have annually recognized individuals and organizations that make significant and lasting contributions to the arts in the City and County of Denver.
Honorees are recognized through a $2,500 stipend, a video highlighting their achievements and a piece of artwork created by local artists which will include a plaque commemorating the award.
This award is presented to an individual or organization that has significantly impacted the lives of youth in the City and County of Denver through the arts, or a young person who has made a noteworthy difference in the community through the arts.
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.
This award is presented to an individual or organization that is breaking new ground in the arts and whose contribution to innovation in the arts has been significant in 2022 or 2023.
This award is presented to an individual or organization that has focused on equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) through their work. Nominees for this award may have worked to integrate an equity practice into their operations, developed a specific program that supports communities that have been historically marginalized including people of color, people with disabilities or members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, presented an event centered in social justice and the arts, or can demonstrate commitments and authentic partnerships with historically under-resourced communities.
This award is presented to an individual or organization that has brought Denver’s arts and culture to the national or world stage. Nominees for this category have received national or international recognition through collaboration, media coverage or grant dollars received.
Denver is brimming with artistic talent and is one of the most vibrant arts centers in the U.S. It’s my honor and privilege to recognize our honorees, individuals who continue to build, strengthen and enhance arts and culture in Denver.
- Mayor Mike Johnston
How do I nominate someone for the Mayor's Awards?
Nominations and Applications for 2023 honorees are currently closed. 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.
When is the awards ceremony?
The awards ceremony usually takes place in November or December.
For more information, please contact Sonia Rae, Cultural Affairs Program Manager.
