Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts | New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs

Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts

Migrating Crows (detail), by 2008 Governor's Arts Award recipient Harry Benjamin

The Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts were established in 1974 by Governor Bruce King and First Lady Alice King to honor New Mexicans who have made a significant lifetime contribution to the arts and are identified with New Mexico. This prestigious annual award recognizes both individuals and organizations and acknowledges the considerable role, both economic and cultural, that artists, craftspeople and arts supporters play in the life of New Mexico.

For more than three decades a prominent and diverse group of painters, weavers, sculptors, dancers, musicians, storytellers, poets, actors, playwrights, potters, and supporters of the arts have been honored.

Nominations for the awards are invited each year from interested New Mexicans and arts groups statewide. Nominations are reviewed by the New Mexico Arts Commission and the Governor.

New Mexico Arts Featured Programs

More DCA Highlights