The Governor's’ Mansion Artist Awards have been honoring Utah’s visual, performing, and culinary artists for nearly 30 years. The 2021 winners of this esteemed recognition are highlighted in a new three-part series showcasing seven individuals for their contribution to the arts in Utah. Art Elevated: The Governor’s Mansion Artist Awards premieres Thursday, July 14-28 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS Utah.
Each year, three visual artists and three performing artists are selected by the governor and first lady from a pool of nominees submitted by the Governor’s Mansion Artists Awards Committee. The awards events raise funds in support of the Governor’s Mansion Foundation’s mission to preserve and furnish the Governor’s Mansion.
Governor Spencer and First Lady Cox are enthusiastically continuing this Utah tradition. With the intent of recognizing and awarding first-rate artists for lifetime achievements, the 2021 recipients include artists from every corner of the state who represent a wide range of ethnicities and sensibilities.
PBS Utah’s Executive Producer Nancy Green said, “My co-producer Sally Shaum and I were inspired by the recipients — their connection to their heritage, their passion for their art, and their commitment to keeping the arts alive for all Utahns. Utah is home to a wealth of creativity. It was an honor to be part of celebrating and recognizing the talents of these individuals.”
The first episode, airing Thursday, July 14 at 7:30 p.m., features muralist, professor, and community activist V. Kim Martinez and former Utah Symphony assistant principal violinist and educator Jack Ashton.
The second episode, airing Thursday, July 21 at 7:30 p.m., celebrates playwright Camille
Washington and actress Alicia Washington, who are the founders and co-directors of Good Company Theatre in Ogden. Award-recipient Fidalis Buehler, a painter and BYU professor, is also recognized in this program.
The final episode, airing Thursday, July 28 at 7:30 p.m., highlights Tongan-born opera tenor Ta’u Pupu’a and master Navajo basket weaver Elsie Holiday. Diane Stewart, also featured in this episode, is honored with a special lifetime achievement award for her work as a philanthropist and owner of Modern West Fine Art, which specializes in supporting contemporary art created by racially diverse artists.
With a glimpse into each artist’s inspiration and creative process, this limited series highlights Utah’s rich history of art and depth of the state’s creative talent.
“Art speaks to us in a language that everyone understands. It’s a connecting point,“ says Utah First Lady Abby Cox. “I hope the artists we select reflect our inclusive vision for Utah — a celebration of what makes this state beautiful, unique, and diverse.”
