The Cleveland
Arts Prize

The Cleveland Arts Prize honors creative individuals who, in the judgment of highly qualified juries, have created an original work, or body of work, that has been constructed, exhibited, performed, or published locally and nationally, and through its consistent quality has brought distinction to our region. Since 1961, more than 125 artists have received prizes for outstanding achievement in the fields of architecture, dance, literature, music, and visual arts. The Arts Prize consists of a medal, a $1,000 stipend, and a certificate signed by the mayor of the City of Cleveland.

Special Citation for Distinguished Service to the Arts

Since 1963 the Cleveland Arts Prize Committee has awarded Special Citations for Distinguished Service to the Arts to those extraordinary individuals and institutions who, though not themselves primary creators of works of art, have made inestimable contributions to the region’s cultural life through dynamic leadership, selfless teaching, or enlightened patronage. Thus far, more than 150 individuals have been so honored.

In 2002 the Cleveland Arts Prize Committee commissioned the design of a pewter medallion to be presented to all future recipients of the Special Citation. The medallion, which over time will be presented to all past recipients, complements the tradition of presenting Arts Prize winners with a medal.