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.

NOTE: Alabama State Council on the Arts postponed the biennial Celebration of Alabama Arts awards ceremony until 2022 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Originally scheduled for May 19, 2021, the ceremony will take place on May 18, 2022, at Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery.

For details on the 2022 Celebration, visit arts.alabama.gov/celebrate.

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View previous issues of Alabama Arts magazine:

• 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
• Governor’s Arts Award
• Albert B. Head Legacy Award
• Arts Leadership Award
• Jonnie Dee Riley Little Lifetime Achievement Award

History of the Arts Award Program

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