The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville’s annual arts awards ceremony Tuesday night had a new name, format and venue, but the support from local artists and advocates of the arts remained the same for the 36th edition of the celebration.
More than 600 people gathered for the 2012 “City Lights” Arts Awards in painter Christina Foard’s studio on the 28th floor of EverBank Center at 301 W. Bay St. In addition to the awards and a reception, the work of 14 local artists was exhibited.
Each year, the Cultural Council recognizes cultural leaders, performers and artists in the areas of education, small business and individual achievement.
The awards have been presented for more than 10 years during lunch on the stage in the Moran Theater at the Times-Union Center but organizers believed that having the event in the evening and in a gallery and studio setting would appeal to supporters.
“Whenever we had the luncheon, so many people had to get back to work as soon as the ceremony was over. We felt they would enjoy being able to mingle,” said Amy Crane, Cultural Council deputy director.
Crane said another reason for the location change was to allow more members of Jacksonville’s growing arts community to attend the reception.
Event co-chair Ginny Steiger said a committee began working on the move in October.
“It has been a lot of fun,” she said.
This year’s Individual Arts Award was presented to Susan Greene in recognition of her advocacy efforts and volunteer leadership with the Cathedral Arts Project.
University of North Florida music professor Charlotte Mabrey received the Arts Educator Award for her years of dedication to her students and performance excellence as a former lead percussionist with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra.
Burdette Ketchum was selected for the Small Business Award. The advertising and public relations agency donates creative services to the symphony and to First Wednesday Art Walk.
The family of the late Ann M. Baker was presented the Individual Hall of Fame Award in her memory. Baker was one of the founders of the Cultural Council.
The inaugural Innovator Award was presented to landscape architect Chris Flagg for his leadership in design and his contributions through volunteer service on the City’s Downtown Development Review Board, JaxPride, the “Spark” redevelopment program and Downtown Vision Inc.
This year’s honorees each received a collection of 15 images of Downtown created by photographer Doug Eng.
The awards ceremony and reception were sponsored by Regions Bank, Stellar Foundation and Best Bet Poker, Simulcast & Gaming.
The Cultural Council is the official local arts agency for the Jacksonville area. The organization’s mission is to increase the appreciation of local arts and culture and make access to the arts easier for organizations and citizens, including artists, families, individuals, students and teachers.
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