Deal honors contributors to arts and humanities

ATLANTA—October 5, 2016 –Gov. Nathan Deal today announced the recipients of the fifth annual Governor's Awards for the Arts and Humanities. These awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to Georgia's civic and cultural vitality. The awards were presented in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities. 'Georgia's vibrant arts and humanities culture is a testament to the creative traditions embedded within our state's cultural framework,' said Deal. 'The First Lady and I believe in the importance of developing the arts in Georgia's communities and we are proud to celebrate the individuals and institutions honored today. Their creative work will have a lasting impact on Georgia's civic culture.' Twelve members of Georgia's arts and humanities communities were chosen from nominations from around the state. These recipients represent a diverse group of individuals and organizations that have laid the groundwork for Georgia's growing creative industry through innovative programs, community collaboration and long-term financial commitment. The recipients of the 2016 Governor's Award for the Arts and Humanities are: Aurora Theatre, Lawrenceville Beach Institute, Savannah Bowdon Area Historical Society, Bowdon Lisa Cremin, Atlanta Lee Harper, Atlanta Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., Savannah Macon Arts Alliance, Macon Museum School of Avondale Estates, Avondale Estates Paula Peace, Atlanta Steve Quesinberry, Newnan Betty Foy Sanders, Statesboro Larry Walker, Atlanta Detailed information about the recipients is available at www.gaarts.org. About the Award The 2016 Governor's Award for the Arts & Humanities was designed by jewelry and small metals artist Shaunté Francois, and was handcrafted with assistance from the Georgia Southern University Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art faculty and students. The lotus flower, representing the power and beauty of nature, symbolically rises above the stylized city silhouette. It represents both the natural world and expanding cities and development. The sculptures were crafted using copper and bronze metal, and are mounted on mahogany wood bases. About the Award Partners The Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) is a division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development that works to cultivate the growth of vibrant, thriving Georgia communities through the arts. GCA provides grant funding and statewide programs and services that support the vital arts industry, preserve the state's cultural heritage, increase tourism and nurture strong communities. Funding for GCA is provided by appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. Visit www.gaarts.org. Georgia Humanities promotes and preserves the stories and cultural legacies of the state's people — from the past to the present and into the future — to enrich their lives and strengthen their communities. An informed and educated Georgia understands historical and cultural trends, respects the life of the mind, utilizes critical thinking in decision-making, and promotes mutual respect and civility. Funding for Georgia Humanities is provided by the Georgia General Assembly, the National Endowment for the Humanities, foundations, donors and partners. Visit www.georgiahumanities.org.