New Awards Structure Inspires Artist in Osceola County

Osceola County coordinator Marilyn Cortes-Lovato was excited to learn about the new NAP awards structure announced at the end of 2016.  In fact, she was so enthusiastic that she immediately reached out after receiving the news in hopes of being the first venue in 2017 to offer participants the increased cash awards.  Marilyn knew that after twelve years with the program, this increase in prize money could be a great incentive for people to participant in this year’s program especially for those that may have taken some time off. And she was right!  This year’s exhibition featured 212 pieces of art from employees and their families of the Osceola County School District and Osceola Arts.  That’s almost a 20% increase from 2016!  Marilyn commented that, “the National Arts Program® at Osceola Arts just keeps getting bigger and better every year with participants showcasing their best work.”  In fact, they had so much artwork that the exhibition filled both gallery spaces and spilled into the hallways of the art center.

Along with increased cash awards for each winner, the new prize structure limits who can receive the Best of Show and Art Education Award.  The Best of Show is now only available to eligible adult participants in any of the three categories, while the Art Education Award is limited to a youth/teen participant; essentially acting as a Best of Show award for this category of artists.  Artists like Sophia Lovato, a teen participant, who received this year’s Art Education Award for her painting entitled “Helping Hands” (pictured).

The NAP is pleased to be able to offer these increased awards and hopes that they continue to encourage artistic development among our venues as successfully as they did in Osceola County.