This year marks the 38th year of the “Community Arts Awards,” honoring creative and innovative recipients, each selected for their artistic excellence, inspired vision, achievements, perseverance and continuous commitment to the arts and local community. The event, presented by First NBC Bank, was made possible by event chairs Ivy and Shawn Barney and honorary event chairs Susan and Ralph Brennan.
Honorees included: Arthur Roger, gallery owner; A Studio in the Woods, an innovative artist residency space and program of Tulane University; the Hogan Jazz Archive at Tulane, committed to the conservation of the musical history of New Orleans; Howard Miller, an acclaimed Mardi Gras Indian Chief and educator; Jeanne Nathan, a prominent arts and cultural advocate; the Young Men Olympian Junior Benevolent Association, among the most celebrated African American Benevolent Societies in Louisiana; and Zion Harmonizers, one of the region’s oldest gospel vocal groups.
The aesthetic vision for the 2014 was 19th century safari meets a traditional carousel. The Riverside Ballroom of Mardi Gras World was transformed into a deconstructed carousel with a curated selection of Mardi Gras World figures, including a lion, a seahorse, a panther and a tiger. Canvas strung between posts and shining lights created interesting shadows as attendees moved around the room and enjoyed delicious food.
New Orleans Tourism & Marketing Corporation CEO Mark Romig served as the Master of Ceremonies, and “NCIS New Orleans’” CCH Pounder provided opening remarks. Germaine Bazzle with Peter Harris Trio opened and closed the event with musical performances. An event highlight included a duo performance by flamenco dancer Eliza Llewellyn and aerialist Liza Rose, created specifically for the Community Arts Awards.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: 38th annual “Community Arts Awards” benefiting Arts Council of New Orleans
When: Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Where: Mardi Gras World
