2026 Berea Art Awards
Sponsored by The Berea Arts Council
The Berea Arts Council is proud to announce that submissions for the 2026 Berea Art Awards are now open.
Each year, the BAC recognizes outstanding artists and arts supporters who help shape the creative life of our community. We invite nominations for individuals whose work, talent, and dedication strengthen the arts in Berea and the surrounding region.
Submission Deadline: All nominations must be submitted by July 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM.
For questions, please contact the Berea Arts Council at 859-985-9317 or email info@bereaartscouncil.org.
2016 Winners
Sarah Culbreth - Artist of the Year Award
John Bolin - Community Arts Award
2017 Winners
Mitch Barrett - Artist of the Year Award
Eddie and Norma Kennedy - Community Arts Award
Malcolm Davis & Katie Okumu - Young Artist of the Year Award
2018 Winners
Warren Brunner - Artists of the Year Award
Kyra Morgan - Young Artist of the Year Award
Belle Jackson - Community award
2019 Winners
Debra Hille - Artist of the Year Award
Bob Boyce - Community Arts Award
Grace Douglas - Young Artist of the Year Award
2020 Winners
Al and Alice White and Ruth McLain Artists off the Year Award
Steve Connelly - Community Award
Award Categories
Artist of the Year
A candidate for this award must be a professional artist (see definition on the nomination form). Candidates may work in any discipline, including literary, performing, or visual arts.
Young Artist of the Year
A candidate for this award should be a high school junior or senior who demonstrates exceptional talent in the literary, visual, or performing arts.
Community Arts Award
This award honors individuals, groups, businesses, or institutions that support the advancement and continued growth of the arts in the greater Berea community.
2021/2022 No Awards Due to COVID-19
2023 Winners
Heather Dent- Artist of the Year
Gwen Childs - Community Arts Award
Collin Richey - Young at Art
Paul Hager - Legacy Award
2024 Winners
Bob Martin- Artist of the Year
Ali Blair - Community Arts Award
Lilyan Wheeler - Young at Art
Joyce Hunsucker - Legacy Award
2025 Winners
Bob Berger - Artist of the Year
Aaron Banther - Community Arts Award
Jessi King - Young at Art