The evening of November 4 was chilly, but the Vermont State House was filled with warmth. More than 100 guests gathered in the lobby for a reception, then headed into the House Chamber for the 2018 Governor's Arts Awards.
A common theme emerged as each presenter and recipient spoke from the podium. Alison Bechdel, who received the Walter Cerf Medal for Outstanding Achievement in the Arts, commented that in Vermont she found a home where she could live happily as a "double outsider - a lesbian and a practitioner of that sketchy, lowbrow art form, cartooning."
Judy Chalmer, recipient of the Arthur Williams Award for Meritorious Service to the Arts, spoke about lifting barriers "that prevent people with disabilities from full participation in the arts - full participation in one of the most beloved aspects of community and one of the most important ways we explore and express what it means to be human." The importance of the arts as a force for inclusion was the clear common thread.
Each of the 2018 Governor's Arts Awards recipients demonstrates the myriad ways the arts can elevate our state and deepen our humanity.
Top: Karen Mittelman with John Willis, Ellen McCulloch-Lovell, Allison Coyne Carroll and Peggy Kannenstine. Bottom: with Alison Bechdel, Jerry Williams, Governor Phil Scott, Chris Miller, Judy Chalmer, and Michele Bailey. Photos by Rachel Stearns.
An Evening of Connection
Photo by Susan McDowell.
The awards event was a time of connection and reflection. Honoring the careers of artists called for looking back. This, coupled with the events of our time, was cause for contemplation by the evening's emcee - Arts Council Executive Director Karen Mittelman. Firmly backed by both wisdom and statistics, she called for building unity through the arts.
Chris Miller observes his work and the model by Jerry Williams. Photo by Jeb Wallace-Brodeur
Governor Phil Scott will preside with legislative leaders at a special celebration to mark the dedication of the newly carved statue of Agriculture on November 30. The 14-foot sculpture will be lifted by crane to the top of the State House dome that day.
Prior to the noon installation there will be a photo opportunity with the statue. This will be your one and only chance to take a selfie with Ceres. Join in the festivities!
The holidays offer a perfect opportunity to support Vermont's creative community. Galleries and arts centers across the state offer an array of gift ideas and holiday decorations. Below are a few options. Give the gift of the arts!
Marble House Project is accepting applications for its 2019 artist residency program, which fosters collaboration and the exchange of ideas for artists across disciplines.
The deadline is December 16.
Get the details.
Lyric Theatre Company will hold auditions for its 2019 production of Mama Mia!
Leading, featured, singing ensemble, and dancing ensemble roles for women, men, and youth. Find out more.
The Vermont Arts Council seeks an experienced executive/development assistant to provide support for the executive director, board of trustees, and the communications director. The application deadline is December 15. More information.
The Vermont Arts Council is funded, in part, by a grant from theNational Endowment for the Arts, which requires a 1:1 match from the Vermont State Legislature. Council grants, programs, and statewide arts promotion would not be possible without the critical funding provided by these government agencies.
