The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville celebrated local arts advocates Friday at the Main Library, hosting its 37th Annual Arts & Culture Awards.
Each year, the council recognizes an arts educator, an arts innovator and a business organization for contributions to local cultural advocacy.
Nominees were reviewed by the selection committee based on community outreach, service to the underserved and the development of innovative programs and collaborations.
The Arts Educator Award was presented to Claudia Kuendig-Williams, dance instructor at Brentwood Elementary School for the Arts, Cathedral Arts Project and Riverside Presbyterian Day School. She was recognized for her work to grow dance and movement opportunities for elementary-aged students.
"Creativity, risk-taking, collaboration, artistic excellence, and a sense of community are all in great supply in any classroom, stage or community event where Claudia Kuendig-Williams is found," said Jeff Smith, Cathedral Arts Project associate director.
Sculptor and retired architect David Engdahl received the Innovator Award. He was recognized for creative design leadership benefiting the Museum of Science & History and Northeast Florida Sculptors.
"For those who know him or have worked with him, David Engdahl is creative, inspiring, challenging and curious. His quiet leadership and influence have helped shape and strengthen our arts and cultural community," said Museum of Science & History Executive Director Maria Hane.
The Jacksonville Chapter of the American Institute of Architects was recognized for the organization's volunteer contributions to the "Jacksonville by Design" exhibit at the museum, sponsoring a neighborhood design initiative in partnership with City Beautiful Jax and conducting a juried graduate design class for the University of Florida and Florida A&M University.
"AIA Jacksonville's accomplishments are many and their chronicling of Jacksonville's architectural heritage has been exemplary. AIA Jacksonville is one of Jacksonville's greatest architectural ambassadors and truly deserving of this award," said Bill Bishop, architect and City Council president.
The Cultural Council is preparing to implement the Spark Grant Program to activate Downtown's core.
Supported by Council resolution in June 2011, the "Creating the Spark" report was published by the City Planning and Development Department as a way to encourage the use of the arts, cultural venues and activities to promote Downtown redevelopment.
Cultural Council Executive Director Robert Arleigh White said applications for grants are sought from individuals and nonprofit organizations with ideas to "ignite the Spark District with an energetic vibe."
Potential projects could include temporary or permanent art installations, functional artwork or performances and events.
White said the first grant cycle begins Oct. 1 and ends Sept. 30, 2014.
"Our hope is to build it. Maybe it will spark something at the Beaches or in Mandarin. It could be like the Great Fire of 1901, only with a happy result," he said.
For application criteria and more information about the program, visit culturalcouncil.org.
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