Join us on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 9:00 am to celebrate the people, organizations, and public leaders who shape Arizona’s creative future, building on more than 40 years of statewide recognition through the Governor’s Arts Awards.

This celebration is happening at the Musical Instrument Museum in north Phoenix at 4725 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix AZ 85050, just south of the 101 and Tatum.

Since 1981, the Governor’s Arts Awards have stood as Arizona’s flagship statewide honor for artists, arts organizations, businesses, educators, and advocates whose passion and creativity shape our cultural landscape.

Awards to be presented on May 8 include The Shelley Award, the Oonagh Award and The Governor's Award.

Governor Hobbs has selected the recipient of The Governor's Award and has been invited to make the presentation on May 8.

The Shelley Award is being presented to Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, the Vice President for Cultural Affairs at Arizona State University and Executive Director of ASU Gammage.

The Governor's Award is being presented to Theatrikos, a Flagstaff based theatre with a commitment to inclusive, community-centered programming and high-quality live theatre.

The Oonagh Award recognizes collaboration in the arts and culture community and the honoree will be announced at the May 8 event. The four finalists for the Oonagh Award are:

Creative Flagstaff (Julie Comnick)
Love Where You Live (Thea Wilshire)
Patagonia Creative Arts Association (Cassina Farley)
Warrior Songs (Jason Moon)

Arizona Creative Excellence Awards 2026

Celebrate Arts Leadership