Nominations Open for Mayor’s Awards for the Arts

Nominations remain open for the 23rd Mayor’s Awards for the Arts, which recognize individuals, organizations and businesses that have strengthened and enriched the arts throughout Sangamon and Menard counties.

The Springfield Area Arts Council, in partnership with the City of Springfield, began accepting nominations Aug. 1. Community members have until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, to submit a nomination.

Presented every two years, the Mayor’s Awards for the Arts recognize excellence, leadership and dedication across eight award categories. The awards honor those who have made a lasting impact on the region’s creative and cultural landscape.

The awards ceremony will be held Thursday, Oct. 29.

Award category descriptions, nomination forms and a complete list of past recipients are available on the Springfield Area Arts Council’s website. There is no fee to submit a nomination. Individuals needing accommodations or alternative formats are encouraged to contact the Arts Council office.

This year’s awards will be handcrafted by Rosie Gale, owner of Ceramics Made by Rosie. A full-time potter and small business owner, Gale offers paint-your-own pottery experiences and participates in local markets and art fairs.

Gale also plans to expand her downtown Springfield studio to include a retail storefront offering pottery supplies and handmade ceramics.

The Springfield Area Arts Council serves Sangamon and Menard counties by promoting and supporting art forms and providing opportunities for residents to participate in and enjoy the arts.

The Arts Council’s office is located in the Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additional information is available on the Arts Council’s website.