Research


Administrative History

The Governor's Arts Awards aimed to recognize and celebrate exceptional individuals and organizations in the arts community. The ceremonies were first initiated under Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1966 and were held until 1976 when the state's financial crisis forced them to be discontinued. They were re-initiated in 1984 under Governor Mario Cuomo and held annually until 2002.

At each awards ceremony, honorary awards were presented in various arts fields correlating with the New York State Council on the Arts grants program areas. Nominations were made by the public and constituents, selected by Council on the Arts staff, and confirmed by the governor.