“The Arts Awards has aways been a highly anticipated event,” said Joy Young, Executive Director of the Cultural Council. “Planning an exceptional event, virtually, was challenging. However, after months of planning, we’re excited to share an evening that will be entertaining, inspiring, and impactful!”

This exciting virtual event will be available, free, to view live on several platforms, including the websites and Facebook of The Cultural Council, WJCT and Downtown Vision’s September virtual Art Walk.

“We know that in past years many people were not able to come to the awards events because of the cost of the tickets. We are thrilled to be able to offer the event for free this year.” Young said. Adding, “The free admission and the platforms that we are showing it on, actually allow us to reach a broader audience and be more inclusive… which is something the arts should always be!.”

In conjunction with the awards ceremony, The Cultural Council has planned other events throughout the week to engage, bring awareness to our arts and culture community in Jacksonville, and help reach their fundraising goals.

The Online Auction

From August 31st – September 6th
View auction items: www.32auctions.com/Artsawards2020

The auction has many interesting and unique items, experiences and original artwork. The artists will receive the wholesale of any pieces sold.

“The purpose of our auction is two-fold", said Ellen Cottrill, Communications and Public Engagement Coordinator at the Cultural Council. “First, it’s a fundraiser. As ticket sales were not an option for this year’s event, the auction is another way to reach our fundraising goals so we can continue to bring innovative programming to the artists and arts and cultural organizations in Jacksonville. Secondly, it’s a platform for artists to showcase and sell their artwork.” She goes on to explain, “artists of all disciplines were particularly affected by the pandemic, and we want to support them any way that we can.”

The Pre-Awards Cocktail Party

September 2nd - Prior to the Awards Ceremony – 6:00 p.m.
Purchase tickets: secure.qgiv.com/for/ccdf/event/817821

A virtual zoom party, to include a short craft cocktail class with Chef’s Garden Catering and Events (alcohol-free instruction included), a Caribbean resort vacation give-a-way, and local performances.

“In a virtual environment we miss the excitement of being at the Arts Awards event together.” added Diana Donovan, Chair of this year’s event. “We wanted to somehow create that feeling of getting dressed up and being together. The Cocktail party is a way to see your friends and mingle virtually!”

$25 ticket to the cocktail party includes: Entrance to the zoom party and a chance to win a beautiful resort stay in Antigua (valid thru December 2022). Purchase here through 9/1 secure.qgiv.com/for/ccdf/event/817821

For all other event information go to www.culturalcouncil.org/44th-annual-arts-awards.

The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville’s mission is to enrich life in Northeast Florida by investing in arts and culture. They serve as the official regranting and administrative agency for City of Jacksonville funding to arts and cultural organizations, as well as provide several programs that benefit artists and arts and culture organizations of all disciplines.