GOVERNOR'S AWARDS FOR THE ARTS

Designed by artist Jeff Chapp, a Delaware resident since 1986, the 2004 presentation piece is a graceful and dynamic vessel in three parts resting on a ceramic base that incorporates the award text. Each segment of the contemporary art piece represents one of Delaware's three counties. Delaware symbolism such as the colors of the state flag, the shape of the state's coastline, and the state insect, the ladybug, are integrated into this "trophy-cup" shaped ceramic form. While the cast forms for the awards remain constant, surfaces vary slightly from piece to piece making no two awards identical for any of the recipients.

On October 6, 2004, Governor Ruth Ann Minner, the Delaware State Arts Council, and the Delaware Division of the Arts jointly presented the 2004 Governor's Awards for the Arts to six individuals and organizations that have made outstanding, long-term contributions to Delaware's artistic and cultural life. The awardees include:

• Charles Allmond,  Wilmington. Sculptor and former attorney

• Donald Parks, Dover. Painter and professor of art at Delaware State University

• Reuben Salters, Dover. Director, Inner-City Cultural League; youth educator; and founder, Sankofa African Dancers and Drummers

• Marie Swajeski, Wilmington. Founder, Delaware Children's Theatre

• Cab Calloway School of the Arts, Wilmington

• Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts, Wilmington

In addition, Steve Bruni, Executive Director of the Delaware Art Museum, received the Ambassador for the Arts Award.

The awards ceremony took place at the Grand Opera House in Wilmington. The evening featured remarks by Governor Ruth Ann Minner and also included performances by the choral group CoroAllegro from Wilmington and the African dance and drumming group Sankofa from Dover.

History of the Governor's Awards for the Arts

Since 1970, Delaware has paid tribute to distinguished individuals and organizations that have had a profound and lasting impact on the state's artistic and cultural life. Governor Ruth Ann Minner, The State Arts Council and the Delaware's Division of the Arts are proud to honor the 2004 recipients of the Governor's Awards for the Arts 2004. This marked the ninth celebration since 1970 of individuals and organizations that have helped to shape Delaware's rich culture & arts.

For listing of past Governor's Award recipients, click here.