The Mayor’s Arts Awards recognize the accomplishments of artists, arts and cultural organizations and community members committed to enriching their communities through the arts.

Get your nominations in now for the 2017 awards
Deadline Extended: Wednesday, May 31

Online Nomination Form
 

The Seattle Arts Commission emphatically shares the Office of Arts & Culture's Commitment to Racial Equity and acknowledges that we are on Native land, the traditional territory of the Coast Salish People. As an advisory body grounded in our common pledge to foster racial and social justice, the Commission leverages collective strength and breadth of knowledge to advocate for racial equity in arts policy, programming and funding. They do this work by centering communities of color in a united effort with the City to help build a just and liberated society for all. The Mayor’s Arts Awards review panel will utilize a racial equity and social justice lens in decision making.

Awards will be presented in the following categories:

Cultural Ambassador: Awarded to an individual who has significantly contributed to Seattle’s arts and cultural community and raised the visibility of Seattle’s arts culture. May include exemplary work across disciplines, as an artist or as an administrator, as well as advocating for and promoting the value of arts and culture. Open to individuals.

Arts & Innovation: Awarded for originality, ingenuity, and resourcefulness within the creative sector. Can include organizations or individuals whose current projects weave together arts and technology, connecting new sectors, creative work in emerging industries, or transformational approaches to established genres. Open to individuals and organizations.

Emerging Leader in the Field: Presented in honor of a newcomer (individual or organization) who is shifting the field of arts and culture. “Emerging” and “newcomer” refers to those without legacy experience in this sector, but who may come from alternative backgrounds. Impacts may be artistic in nature, creating dialogue or spaces for dialogue, or bringing awareness to an under-represented topic. Contributions may be across a variety of disciplines and modes. Open to individuals and organizations.

The Seattle Arts Commission will review public nominations and recommend recipients to the mayor for final selection. Last year more than 400 nominations were received.

Save the Date

Mayor Murray will honor recipients of the 2017 Mayor’s Arts Awards at a public ceremony at Seattle Center, Thursday, August 31 at 4 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.