Kay Thomas of Mountain View has been named the recipient of the 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards Folklife Award, honoring her dedication to preserving and promoting Arkansas’ rich cultural heritage and traditional arts.
The announcement was made by the Arkansas Arts Council, an agency of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Thomas will be formally recognized during the Governor’s Arts Awards ceremony on March 13, 2026, at the Robinson Center in Little Rock.
The Folklife Award recognizes individuals who have made lasting contributions to the preservation of folk traditions, heritage arts, and community-based cultural practices. Thomas has long been recognized in the Mountain View area for supporting Ozark traditions, heritage education, and community engagement through the arts.
“The Governor’s Arts Awards honor the artists, philanthropists and educators whose creativity helps shape the Arkansas experience,” said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “Their work strengthens communities, fuels our creative economy and gives visitors and residents more reasons to explore, connect and be inspired by The Natural State.”
Organizers say Thomas’ selection highlights the continued importance of preserving Arkansas’ folklife traditions for future generations and promoting cultural tourism throughout the Ozarks.
Tickets for the awards ceremony are now on sale.
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