Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts

Honoree's Exhibition, Governor's Gallery, Fourth Floor, State Capitol Opening Reception: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Governor Bill Richardson and First Lady Barbara Richardson, along with the New Mexico Arts Commission, have announced the eight artists and arts supporters who will be recipients of the 2009 Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts.

“Arts and cultural activities define New Mexico as they do few other places in the world,” said Governor Richardson. “I am very proud of these exceptional artists and contributors, and I applaud the important work they do in our communities each and every day.”

First Lady Barbara Richardson said, "The Governor and I urge all New Mexicans to join us in applauding this year's Arts Awards winners.  Their works contribute significantly to the cultural life of our state and remind us why this is the Land of Enchantment."

Stephen Hansen, of Las Cruces, for Sculpture Tom Joyce, of Santa Fe, for Blacksmithing and Sculpture Joseph Lonewolf, of Santa Clara Pueblo, for Pottery Carmella Padilla, of Santa Fe, for Literary Arts Edward Vega, of Albuquerque, for Sculpture Elaine Wiggins, Howe of Roswell, Major Contributor to the Arts William A. Miller, of Santa Fe, Major Contributor to the Arts    Pasatiempo, the Santa Fe New Mexican’s Arts and Entertainment Magazine, Major Contributor to the Arts

The 2009 Governor’s Arts Awards ceremonies will be held on Friday evening, September 25, 5:15 to 7:00 p.m. at the St. Francis Auditorium, New Mexico Museum of Art in Santa Fe.  The ceremony is preceded by an afternoon reception and exhibition opening, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., in the Governor’s Gallery, 4th Floor, State Capitol.  Both the awards ceremony and gallery reception are free and open to the public.

More info: http://www.mfasantafe.org/governors/awards/index.php