Eight honored at 47th annual Arts Awards gala

The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville hosted its 47th annual Arts Awards gala Oct. 4 at the Florida Blue Conference Center.

The sold-out event brought together more than 300 guests, along with Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville staff, City of Jacksonville representatives, including Mayor Donna Deegan, Council Vice President Kevin Carrico, top business leaders and the cultural community to celebrate eight award winners making a difference in the arts and culture space and their communities.

Honorees were:

• Helen Lane Founders Award: Jason Peoples, executive director of Jacksonville Arts & Music School (JAMS)

• Corporate Business of the Year: PNC Bank

• Robert Arleigh White Award For Advocacy: Taryn “LoveReigns” Wharwood, program director, The Performers Academy

• Small Business of the Year: The Walrus 

• Art Innovator: David Luckin, music director and radio host, WJCT

• Art Educator: Amanda Holloway, art educator at Global Leadership Academy High School

• Art of Giving: Carol Grimes, arts advocate and philanthropist

• Community Impact Award: John Silveira, manager and director of Riverside Arts Market (RAM)

In addition, two Cultural Catalysts recognitions were presented to Kerri Stewart and Nat Ford for their exceptional contributions to Jacksonville through their innovative leadership and commitment to our community.