The Celebration of Alabama Arts awards program shines a spotlight on arts and creativity in Alabama and on individuals who make significant and impactful contributions to our state’s rich cultural landscape. Nominations may include artists, businesspersons, arts volunteers, arts managers, arts patrons, arts administrators, creative economy leaders, arts educators, stewards of folk traditions and cultural heritage, and others noted for promoting the arts in Alabama.

For more info on the 2024 awards celebration, visit arts.alabama.gov/celebrate.

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View previous issues of Alabama Arts magazine:

• Alabama Arts 2022
• Alabama Arts 2019
• Alabama Arts 2017
• Alabama Arts 2015
• Alabama Arts 2013
• Alabama Arts 2011
• Alabama Arts 2009
• Alabama Arts 2007
• Alabama Arts 2005
• Alabama Arts 2003

Awards are given in the following categories:

• Distinguished Artist Award
• Folk Heritage Award
• Albert B. Head Legacy Award
• Jonnie Dee Riley Little Lifetime Achievement Award
• Alabama Arts Impact Award

Previous award categories:

• Governor’s Arts Award
• Arts Leadership Award

Previous Celebrations and Ceremonies

2022 Celebration & Honorees:

Wes Chapman, Jason Max Ferdinand, Clifton Pearson, Mary Settle Cooney, Patty McDonald, Stanley Smith, and David Hood were honored during the 2022 Celebration of Alabama Arts. The contributions of these remarkable individuals were recognized with memorable performances by Innergy INC. dancers, Oakwood University's Aeolians, Alabama Ballet, Iron Horse bluegrass band, Red Mountain Theatre, Alabama shape note singers, and the Muscle Shoals Sound tribute band – including a special appearance by David Hood himself! More details here.

For a detailed look at the history of our arts award program, click here.