The Missouri Arts Council recently unveiled the honorees for the 2026 Missouri Arts Awards, lauding the exceptional contributions of six recipients in areas ranging from arts education to philanthropy. Among those celebrated are the Community Music School of Webster University, City in Motion Dance Theater, and past muralist Ray Harvey, alongside others who have markedly enriched Missouri’s cultural fabric, according to a statement on the Lieutenant Governor's official website.
Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger expressed his pride in a public release, stating, "The arts tell the story of who we are as Missourians," as mentioned on the Lieutenant Governor website. He noted that these honorees embody the spirit of creativity across the state, whether it be in the urban centers of St. Louis and Kansas City, or in the smaller communities. The awards ceremony, set for February 4, 2026, at the Missouri State Capitol, marks the 44th year celebrating the state's artistic achievements. The independent panel responsible for the selection comprised individuals from the statewide arts community, drawing from public nominations to make their choices.
Turning the spotlight on the award categories, the Arts Education honor goes to the Community Music School (CMS) of Webster University for its century-long commitment to music education, servicing a wide demographic spectrum, young children to adults, through varied programs. City in Motion Dance Theater in Kansas City, recognized for its role as an Arts Organization, has championed community engagement with innovative collaborations aiding individuals impacted by social issues, including domestic violence survivors and visually impaired students.
The title of Creative Community was bestowed upon the City of West Plains for its unified effort to embed the arts in its growth strategy, while Individual Artist Ray Harvey's prolific portfolio of over 600 murals substantially contributed to his hometown of Hannibal and Concordia's recognition as Missouri’s official Patriotic Mural City. Erin Warner Prange, noted for her transformative work with the Saint Louis Dance Theatre, received acknowledgment for Leadership in the Arts, and philanthropist duo David and Thelma Steward of St. Louis were honored for their four-decade-long commitment to various arts initiatives.
Funded by multiple sources, including the Missouri General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, the Missouri Arts Council itself is dedicated to cultivating meaningful arts experiences, enhancing economic growth through arts, and bolstering education across Missouri communities. Since its inception in 1965, the council continues to provide expertise and grants, playing a pivotal role in nurturing arts across the state.
