As the city continues to emerge from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 39th annual Mayor’s Arts Awards invites the public to celebrate the District’s strong arts scene through nominating creative talents, who are driving culture through Aug. 9.
“The artists and creatives in Washington, D.C. are unparalleled,” said LaToya Foster, director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME). “This year’s Mayor’s Arts Awards ‘Homecoming’ is a celebration of the remarkable achievements of our creatives who call the District home. The Mayor’s Arts Awards provide a unique opportunity for DC residents to nominate, vote, and honor the creativity and innovation that make our city extraordinary.”
OCTFME, in collaboration with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, emphasized the community’s role in recognizing artistic excellence.
“We want to encourage residents to actively nominate their favorite creators,” said Latoya Foster, OCTFME Director. “This year’s awards, now in its 39th year, includes 14 categories for residents to nominate their favorite creatives spanning from visual and performing arts, literary achievements, innovative contributions and more.”
Public nominations are pivotal in highlighting the talents that enrich the city’s cultural landscape. Winning an award can significantly boost an artist’s visibility and open new opportunities.
Artist Brian Bailey, a past recipient of the Excellence in Arts Education Award, reflected on the impact of his win.
“When everybody saw that this young guy who just started painting won this award for excellence in arts education specifically, it kind of woke everybody up,” said Bailey.
The Mayor’s Arts Award, which will be held on Sept. 24, is a keystone event of 202Creates Month, a city-wide initiative celebrating arts and culture throughout the District. This month-long festival features diverse events showcasing the creative pulse of D.C., further demonstrating the city’s commitment to its artistic community.
The celebration of the artists who make Washington, D.C., a dynamic and inspiring place to live.
“We are proud to be an arts city, and it’s true: 202 creates,” said Mayor Bowser. “Our creative community brings us so much joy and helps us tell the story of the real D.C., and the Mayor’s Arts Awards are an opportunity for us to show our appreciation as a community. I encourage you to think about the many people who share their talents and passions with us and to submit your nominations.”
For more information and to submit nominations, go to the Mayor’s Arts Awards website.