Tuesday, May 18 marks the 2022 Celebration of Alabama Arts in Montgomery. We’ve got the scoop on what the event is all about and who the lucky seven award recipients are.

The celebration

The Celebration of Alabama Arts is a yearly event that shines a spotlight on arts and creativity in Alabama and on individuals who make significant and impactful contributions to our state’s cultural landscape.

This year’s event, hosted by Tonya Terry, will recognize the contributions of seven individuals with memorable performances in their honor.

Awards received during the event include:

Governor’s Arts Award: Honors individuals who have made unique contributions to the arts in Alabama.

Jonnie Dee Riley Little Lifetime Achievement Award: Recognizes individuals who have devoted a lifetime of energy, service and contributions to the arts in Alabama.

Albert B. Head Legacy Award: Recognizes individuals who make unique contributions to the public arena that will have lasting importance for future generations in Alabama and beyond.

Alabama Folk Heritage Award: Established to recognize master folk artists who have made outstanding contributions to their artistic tradition. The award honors long-term achievement within art forms that are rooted in the traditional or ethnic culture of Alabama.

Alabama Distinguished Artist Award: Recognizes artists with deep connections to Alabama who have earned significant national acclaim for their art over an extended period.

Learn more about their accomplishments.

Who are the special 7?

You’ve waited long enough! Here’s the list of recipients and the award they will receive:

• Wes Chapman: Ballet Dancer/Artistic Director from Birmingham | Governor’s Arts Award

• Jason Ferdinand: Conductor/Composer from Huntsville | Governor’s Arts Award

• Clifton Pearson: Visual Artist from Huntsville | Governor’s Arts Award

• Mary Settle Cooney: Arts Administrator from Sheffield | Jonnie Dee Riley Little Lifetime Achievement Award

• Patty McDonald: Arts Patron from Birmingham (posthumously) | Albert B. Head Legacy Award

• Stanley Smith: Sacred Harp Singer/Composer from Ozark | Alabama Folk Heritage Award

• David Hood: World-renowned bass player and studio musician from Muscle Shoals | Alabama Distinguished Artist Award

Want to attend the event?

Here are the details you need to know.

What: 2022 Celebration of Alabama Arts
When: Wednesday, May 18 | 7PM
Where: Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 1 Festival Dr, Montgomery, AL 36117
Cost: Free
Reserve your ticket

Congratulations to these outstanding honorees!

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