The Arkansas Arts Council, an agency of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, has announced the recipients of the 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and businesses for outstanding contributions to the arts in Arkansas.
The honorees will be recognized during a ceremony on March 13, 2026, at the Robinson Center in Little Rock. Tickets for the event are now on sale.
The Governor’s Arts Awards program celebrates artists, educators, philanthropists, and community partners whose work strengthens Arkansas communities, supports the creative economy, and enhances the cultural experience for residents and visitors alike. Recipients are nominated by the public and selected by an independent panel of arts professionals.
“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.”
🎭 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards Recipients
• Michael Fothergill of Little Rock — Arts Community Development Award
• Corey Alderdice of Hot Springs — Arts in Education Award
• Northwest Arkansas Mall of Fayetteville — Corporate Sponsorship of the Arts Award
• Kay Thomas of Mountain View — Folklife Award
• Sheila Holland Cotton of Little Rock — Individual Artist Award
• Al “Papa Rap” of Rogers — Judges Recognition Award
• The Frueauff Family of Little Rock — Patron Award
Organizers say the annual awards program continues to highlight the important role the arts play in economic development, education, tourism, and quality of life throughout Arkansas.
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