The Dearborn community recently celebrated the achievements of local artists and art benefactors during the Mayor's Arts Awards, with Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud presenting honors to a diverse group of talent at the annual affair. The ceremony, held on Monday, highlighted the city's vibrant art scene at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center by recognizing individuals and groups across seven categories for their significant artistic contributions to the area.
Among the 2025 honorees, revealed in a statement from the City of Dearborn, were Janeen Bodary, who won the Artist/Performer Award, and Niki Cassidy, who took the Art Educator Award; additionally. Karen Holland received accolades for her volunteer work. At the same time, Dearborn Fine Arts Club, under Aya Hasan's lead, garnered the Organization Award. The Patron Award was presented to Steven and Faye Adelson of Steven Bernard Jewelers. Recognition also went to Sunshine Durant with a Special Recognition Award, and Haroutioun Bastajian was celebrated with the prestigious 2025 Mayor's Award, honoring his work as an artist and designer.
The Mayor's Arts Awards initiative dates back to 1988, making a tradition of honoring those who foster the regional arts landscape through active participation and support. Coinciding with April Arts Month, a plethora of performances, workshops, and exhibitions are spearheaded by the Dearborn Recreation Commission/Cultural Arts Committee and supported by the Dearborn Community Fund, aligning with the city and the Parks & Recreation Department's efforts to propagate cultural enrichment in the community.
Support for this year's art festivities came from several local businesses, including Dearborn Federal Savings Bank, the financial guidance of Ameriprise Financial's Jim Thorpe, CFP, AWMA, and the sweet treats from Dearborn Dairy Queen on Greenfield, which demonstrated their patronage by contributing to the awards program. Citizens interested in learning more about the art happenings in Dearborn or inquiring about upcoming events can reach out to the Dearborn Community Fund office at 313-943-5478 for additional information.
