Governor Matt Bevin presented a 2016 Governor’s Award in the Arts to Darlene Mazzone, publisher of Paducah Life Magazine, at the state capitol.
The magazine was honored with this year’s Media Award, one of 10 prestigious awards presented each year by Kentucky’s governor and the Kentucky Arts Council.
“Just as the wheels of commerce and industry are important to moving Kentucky forward, so too are the arts... Each work of art tells a story and is a reflection of its maker’s unique journey through life,” said Governor Bevin.
Telling the story of arts in Paducah and western Kentucky has been a part of the magazine’s mission since its beginning in 1990.
“I began with our inaugural issue in which there was a story about a local author and a feature on a young dancer. When I started working my way through subsequent editions to support our nomination I found that the magazine has included a piece on art or performance in literally every edition we’ve ever published. I don’t know why that surprised me since art is such a vital part of LIFE in our community,” said Mazzone.
“I’m excited about the recipients of this year’s Awards in the Arts,” added Governor Bevin. “These accomplished artists come from every corner of the Commonwealth and they exemplify the best of Kentucky’s creative spirit and foster a love for the arts in our communities.”
Recipients of the 2016 Governor’s Awards in the Arts, the state’s highest honors in the arts, each received a handmade platter by Kentucky Crafted ceramic artist Matthew Gaddie of Bardstown.
Nominations for the 2017 Governor’s Awards in the Arts can be submitted at artscouncil.ky.gov. The deadline is November 1.
