JACKSON, MISS. – June 1, 2017 – The Mississippi Arts Commission is accepting nominations for the 2018 Governor’s Arts Awards, an annual ceremony that recognizes individuals and organizations who have made noteworthy contributions to the arts in the state of Mississippi. The awards are presented in partnership with the Governor’s Office and signify the important relationship between government and the arts. The deadline to submit nominations for the 2018 Governor’s Arts Awards is August 1, 2017.

“We encourage the public and our arts partners to nominate arts leaders across the state worthy of this prestigious award,” said Malcolm White, executive director of MAC. “The Governor’s Arts Awards places awardees among the ranks of Mississippi greats like Eudora Welty, B. B. King, Leontyne Price, the Bologna Arts Center and the USA International Ballet Competition. This annual event spotlights the rich and deep pool of artistic talent in our state.”

Award winners are nominated by members of the public and selected by a jury of community arts leaders and industry peers. Schools, businesses, organizations, arts initiatives and events are eligible to receive Governor’s Arts Awards, in addition to individual artists and supporters of the arts. Awardees are recognized for outstanding work in visual, literary and performing arts, community development through the arts and arts patronage. Recipients are not required to be Mississippi residents, but they must have significant ties to the state through some years of residency.

Complete application criteria and forms are available on MAC’s website at http://www.arts.ms.gov/special-projects/governors-awards.php or by calling (601) 359-6030. First-time applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Anna Ehrgott, MAC communications director, regarding inquiries prior to submitting an application.