Mayor Bowser Opens Nominations for the 39th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards

(Washington, DC) - Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that nominations are now open for the 39th Annual Mayor's Arts Awards. This year's event, themed "Homecoming: Celebrating DC's Creative Spirit," will spotlight the exceptional talent who call the nation's capital home. The unforgettable celebration will highlight local artists, arts educators, nonprofit organizations, and patrons of the arts and humanities, showcasing the diverse and vibrant creative community in the District.

"We are proud to be an arts city, and it's true: 202 creates," said Mayor Bowser. "Our creative community brings us so much joy and helps us tell the story of the real DC, and the Mayor's Arts Awards are an opportunity for us to show our appreciation as a community. I encourage you to think about the many people who share their talents and passions with us and to submit your nominations."

This year's Mayor's Arts Awards will feature 15 distinct categories including new honors such as the "Award for Excellence in Philanthropy" and the "Award for Excellence in Go-Go Music." Nominations and awardees, except for the "Award for Distinguished Honor," are chosen by DC residents from all eight wards. The nomination period is open now and will close on Friday, August 9, 2024. During this time, residents can nominate DC creatives across various categories, with self-nominations welcomed.

"The artists and creatives in Washington, DC are unparalleled," says LaToya Foster, Director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment. "This year's Mayor's Arts Awards 'Homecoming' is a celebration of the remarkable achievements of our creatives who call the District home. The Mayor's Arts Awards provide a unique opportunity for DC residents to nominate, vote, and honor the creativity and innovation that make our city extraordinary."

Produced by the award-winning Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment, in conjunction with DC's Creative Affairs Office, the Mayor's Arts Awards promises to be a night to remember. The event will feature live performances and surprise guests, celebrating the artistic excellence that makes DC the capital of cool, culture, and creativity.

Visit dcmayorsartsawards.com to nominate DC creatives in the various Mayor's Arts Awards categories, listed below:

MAYOR'S ARTS AWARD CATEGORIES

• Award for Excellence in Arts Education
• Award for Excellence as a Community Arts Philanthropist*
• Award for Excellence in the Creative Industries
• Award for Excellence in Fashion and Beauty Industries
• Award for Excellence in Go-Go Music*
• Award for Excellence in the Humanities
• Award for Excellence in Media Arts
• Award for Excellence in Nightlife
• Award for Excellence in Performing Arts
• Award for Excellence in Visual Arts
• Award for Excellence in Youth Creativity
• Award for Visionary Leadership
• Emerging Creative Award
• Larry Neal Writers' Award

*New Category in 2024

Nomination Round: Nominations can be submitted now through Friday, August 9, 2024 at dcmayorsartsawards.com.

Voting Round: Public voting will take place from Monday, August 26, 2024 through Friday, September 6, 2024 at dcmayorsartsawards.com.

Winners will be announced at the 39th Annual Mayor's Arts Awards ceremony on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. Residents are invited to attend this free annual event. For updates and details, please visit dcmayorsartsawards.com.

In addition to the Mayor's Arts Awards, September's 202Creates Month will feature events and activations honoring, celebrating, and elevating the creative spirit of DC's arts community throughout the entire month. Visit 202creates.com for information on other free family-friendly arts and cultural events happening in September.

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