Deal honors individuals for achievements in the arts and humanities
Gov. Nathan Deal announced today at the state Capitol the recipients of the third annual Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities. Thirteen Georgia citizens and organizations were recognized for their significant contributions to innovation and growth of the state’s civic and cultural vitality. The awards were presented in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities Council.
“Georgia’s arts and humanities sectors propel our state forward by improving quality of life for the citizens and businesses of our state,” said Deal. “The individuals and organizations honored here today are committed to growing and sustaining Georgia’s vibrant culture and history, and I am grateful for their significant contributions to our state.”
Thirteen members of Georgia’s arts and humanities communities were chosen from a selection of nominations from around the state. The 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 2014 Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities are:
Syd Blackmarr, Tifton
Leslie Gordon, Atlanta
Fred and Dinah Gretsch, Savannah
Paul Hudson, Clarkston
Carl Purdy, Atlanta
Douglas Scott, Atlanta
The Activities Council of Thomson, Thomson
Atlanta Ballet, Atlanta
Brenau University, Gainesville
Center for Civil and Human Rights, Atlanta
Freedom Singers, Albany
Meridian Herald, Atlanta
Richard B. Russell Library of Political Research and Studies, Athens
Detailed information about the recipients available here.
About the Award
The 2014 Governor’s Award was handcrafted by Whelchel Meaders, a distinguished member of a famous family of Georgia folk potters. His father was L.Q. Meaders, one of six potter sons of John Milton Meaders, who founded Meaders Pottery in 1892 in the Mossy Creek community of Southern White County. Whelchel continues this hundred year old tradition of producing functional ware coated with woodash- and lime-based alkaline glazes. His runny-textured ash glaze exemplifies the high-firing, green or brown glazes unique to the South, this distinctive Southern stoneware tradition. Represented in the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia at Sautee Nacoochee, Whelchel joins some 30 potters of the state who maintain a craft tradition continuous since the early 19th century.
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.
The Georgia Humanities Council 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 the Georgia Humanities Council is provided by the state of Georgia, the National Endowment for the Humanities, foundations, donors and our partners. Visit www.georgiahumanities.org.