,
The New Mexico Arts Commission and the New Mexico Arts Division announce a call for nominations for the 2025 Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts. Now until March 17, interested individuals and art organizations statewide are encouraged to nominate New Mexico’s most proficient and accomplished artists for the honor.
During an exhibition and awards ceremony held each year, the governor acknowledges the achievements and contributions of New Mexican artists, arts organizations and supporters. Nominations are open to organizations and living artists in New Mexico, but self-nominations and nominations by immediate family or members of the same household will not be accepted. Nominations are reviewed by the governor and the New Mexico Arts Commission.
Established in 1974 by then-Governor Bruce King and First Lady Alice King, the Governor’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts has celebrated prominent painters, sculptors, potters, weavers, dancers, musicians, storytellers, poets, actors and playwrights from across the state.
2024 award recipients:
John Garrett, Las Cruces – Visual Artist (Textiles)
Diana Ingalls Leyba, Silver City – Mixed Media Artist, Youth Program Director
Ross Kagan Marks, Las Cruces – Director, Writer, Producer
Arlo Namingha (Tewa/Hopi), Santa Fe – Sculptor, Multi-media Artist
Pamela Shirinne Smith, Abiquiu – Curator, Educator, Book Designer, Letterpress Printer
Jock Soto (Diné), Eagle’s Nest – Dancer, Choreographer, Teacher, Writer
Ellen and Robert Vladem, Santa Fe – Philanthropy, Major Contributors
Access the online nomination form here: nmarts.org/all-programs/governors-arts-awards/
The deadline for nomination is 5 p.m., March 17.