Volunteers helped wrap the Sioux City Art Center for a temporary art project called “Razzle Dazzle.” (Photo: SCAC)
The Governor’s Arts Awards recognize Iowans who have made exceptional contributions to the arts across the state. Over the past 50 years, the State of Iowa’s highest honors for the arts have been presented to leading Iowa artists, organizations, educators and volunteers.
The Iowa Arts Council, a part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, recently announced the following eight honorees:
Arts Service Award
• The Sioux City Art Center’s “Razzle Dazzle” project engaged hundreds of local volunteers and transformed the building into a community-driven artwork that attracted new visitors.
Arts Learning Award
• The University of Iowa’s Arts Share program in Iowa City reached more than 14,000 students and community members over the last two years, bringing performance, teaching and creative practices to communities across Iowa.
Emerging Arts Leader Award
• Siriaco “Siri” Garcia of Huxley helped create more than 40 community murals in Central Iowa.
• Akwi Nji of Cedar Rapids was recognized for her leadership in multidisciplinary arts and storytelling and collaborations with organizations across the state.
Arts Legacy Award
• Craig Ihnen of West Des Moines fostered artistic expression and excellence in speech and performing arts over nearly three decades as executive director of the Iowa High School Speech Association.
Arts Champion Award
• The City of Bondurant integrated the arts into community development through creative placemaking projects.
• Thomas Lacina of Grinnell helped advance the Grinnell Area Arts Council, supporting local artists and ensuring the arts are an integral part of the community.
Heritage Award
• The History Stitchers of Appanoose County in Centerville maintain and celebrate Iowa’s quilting traditions through the Centerville Tapestry Project.
• Seso Marentes of Des Moines preserves and shares cultural heritage through visual and public art, cultural festivals, community engagement and storytelling.
Film and Media Award
• FilmScene in Iowa City cultivated a vibrant film culture in the state through educational programs, partnerships and an annual film festival.
