Ewing Arts Awards

about the awards

Every July, The Keene Sentinel and Arts Alive partner to celebrate the diversity and excellence of artists in the Monadnock region. The mission of this event is to bring hometown recognition to local, world-class artists. Ruth and James Ewing Arts Awardees are creating and presenting art of excellence and contributing to the field of arts and culture in our community and beyond.

We could not have hoped for a better outcome. It is an honor to showcase the treasures of this region’s creative community. - Terry Williams, former President, Keene Sentinel

Each year that goes by, my appreciation and wonder grows for the rich arts community here in the Monadnock Region. Our culture is one that is steeped in art — traditional styles to boundary-pushing work, from old masters to emerging dreamers. I love that we can bring attention to these artists and organizations and celebrate this part of our region’s identity. - Jessica Gelter, Arts Alive

These awards seek to recognize excellence in the creative community, and to acknowledge how these artists give back to their communities and their professions through their work. Winners are profiled in a special glossy magazine that is published each summer. The evening prior to the publication's release, The Keene Sentinel and Arts Alive host a reception for the recipients to showcase their work.

Artists and arts organizations are recognized in the categories of performing arts, visual arts, literary arts, interdisciplinary arts, folk and traditional arts, presenters of the arts, student award, arts advocate, lifetime achievement, and excellence in community engagement.

The awards are named in honor of the late Ruth and James Ewing, who made many contributions to the local arts community through their stewardship of The Keene Sentinel and through personal philanthropy. Both Ewings were directors at the artist residency program MacDowell in Peterborough. James founded the New Hampshire Humanities Council and established the James D. Ewing World Affairs Lecture at Keene State College. Ruth was active with the Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music at and the Grand Monadnock Arts Council.