JACKSON, MISS. – June 1, 2020 – The Mississippi Arts Commission is now accepting nominations for the 2021 Governor’s Arts Awards, an annual ceremony that recognizes individuals and organizations that 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. Award nominations may be submitted online via MAC’s website at https://arts.ms.gov/GovernorsArtsAwards. The deadline to submit nominations for the 2021 Governor’s Arts Awards is July 31, 2020.

“We are happy to announce that the show will go on as we believe recognizing the power of the arts has never been more important,” said Malcolm White, executive director of MAC. “Of course, none of us can predict the future, but we will certainly celebrate the arts and these artists to the greatest extent possible. As always, we encourage the public to nominate impactful contributors to the arts.”

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.

The Governor’s Arts Awards ceremony will be held in February 2021 and aired on MPB TV and Radio at a date TBD.

Visit https://arts.ms.gov/GovernorsArtsAwards to submit a nomination, view a listing of past awardees and learn more about this annual celebration of the arts. Please contact Anna Ehrgott, MAC communications director, with any questions regarding the nomination process.

Contact:  Anna Ehrgott | Communications Director | aehrgott@arts.ms.gov | (601) 359-6546