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The National Medal of Arts is the highest award given to artists and arts patrons by the United States Government. The National Medal of Arts is awarded by the President of the United States to individuals or groups who, in his judgment, "...are deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support and availability of the arts in the United States." |
During the past 24 years, more than 200 extraordinary
patrons and artists in the fields of visual, performing and literary arts
have been honored. With this medal, the President recognizes the wealth
and depth of creative expression of America's artists. Annually a vast
number of nominations are submitted from citizens across the country for
consideration by the National Council on the Arts.
This lifetime achievement award recognizes the extraordinary
accomplishments of individuals engaged in the creation and production
of the arts in the United States. The arts encompass, arts education, crafts, dance, drawing, film, graphic/product design, interior design, landscape architecture, literature, classical and popular music, painting, patrons/advocates, photography, presenting, printmaking, sculpture, theater, urban design.
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In a surprise announcement, President Bush presents NEA Chairman Gioia with a 2008 Presidential Citizens Medal during the National Medal of Arts ceremony on November 17, 2008 at the White House.
He is commended for "his dedication to fostering creativity and expression and for helping preserve America’s rich artistic legacy." Photo by James Kegley. |
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2008 National Medal of Arts recipient Olivia de Havilland receives her medal from President Bush. Alongside "her persuasive and compelling skill as an actress…” the citation noted that "her independence, integrity, and grace won creative freedom for herself and her fellow film actors. Photo by James Kegley.
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2008 National Medal of Arts recipient Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman, whose career includes the song scores for Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and more than 30 Disney films. Here with President Bush, they were commended for music that "has helped bring joy to millions." Photo by James Kegley. |
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2008 National Medal of Arts recipient Stan Lee, honored for revolutionizing the American comic book. The citation noted "His complex plots and humane superheroes celebrate courage, honesty, and the importance of helping the less fortunate, reflecting America’s inherent goodness." Photo by James Kegley. |
National Endowment for the Arts · an independent federal agency
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20506
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The deadline for
2008 nominations
has passed.
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