Gov. Kemp Applauds Contributors in Arts and Humanities

Atlanta, GA -  Governor Brian P. Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp today announced the recipients of the eighth annual Governor's Awards for the Arts and Humanities. The awards were presented in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities.

“Georgia is home to a strong arts and humanities culture that fuels creativity and innovation,” said Governor Kemp. “Growing and sustaining our arts and humanities sectors can create a catalyst for community revitalization and local economic development across the state. I congratulate the recipients of the 2019 Governor's Awards for the Arts and Humanities and thank these individuals and organizations for their tireless work toward the advancement of our state.”

Ten members of Georgia's arts and humanities communities were awarded with this honor following a competitive selection process from nominations submitted from around the state. The recipients represent a diverse group of individuals and organizations that have contributed to and supported the growth of Georgia's thriving creative industries through community involvement, pioneering programs and long-term financial commitment.

The recipients of the 2019 Governor's Awards for the Arts and Humanities are:
• Lucinda W. Bunnen, Atlanta
• Common Good Atlanta, Atlanta
• Hermina Glass-Hill, Kennesaw and Midway
• Christopher Johnson, Cuthbert and Columbus
• Madison-Morgan Conservancy, Madison-Morgan County
• Jessye Norman School of the Arts, Augusta and Richmond County
• Kathy Prescott and Grady Thrasher, Athens and Atlanta
• Rick McKnight, Columbus
• Mercer University Press, Macon
• Angelica Hairston, Atlanta

Detailed information about the recipients is available at www.gaarts.org.

About the 2019 Award

The 2019 Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities was hand crafted by Athens self-taught artist Cecel Allee. Allee created one-of-a-kind paintings on wooden box frames.

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. For more information, 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. For more information, visit www.georgiahumanities.org.