Established in 1971, the Governor’s Arts Awards is produced biennially by the Tennessee Arts Commission and recognizes individuals and organizations whose contributions to the cultural life of Tennessee are outstanding. The awards themselves represent artistic genius from some of the finest working artists across the state of Tennessee.
2017—Award created by Bill Capshaw2015–Award created by the Metal Museum2013–Award created by William Ralston2011–Award created by Claudia Lee2009–Award created by Jack Hastings2007–Award created by Brenda Stein2005–Award created by Curtiss Brock2003–Award created by Roy Overcast2001–Award created by Sylvia Hyman1998–Award created by Calvin Nicely1996–Award created by Veda Reed1994–Award created by Mimi Dann1992–Award created by Rick Stewart1990–Award created by Paul Ritscher1988–Award created by Richard Jolley1986–Award created by Helga Winter1980
