PASEO ARTS AWARDS
Each year, the Paseo Arts Association honors artists and art supporters who have made a strong contribution to the arts in our state at the Paseo Arts Awards Dinner & Silent Auction. The PAA’s Annual Arts Awards were created to recognize and honor those individuals who have contributed to the artistic creativity and well-being of our state. By recognizing artists through these awards, we hope to strengthen the Oklahoma art community. We wish to thank all the artists, patrons, supporters, teachers, authors, collectors, and overall appreciators of the arts.
The awards dinner, ceremony and silent auction also serve as a fundraiser for the Paseo Arts Association, helping to support arts events and programs year-round, such as First Friday events, kickstarters for artists such as Paseo FEAST, the Paseo Arts Festival in May and so much more.
The Paseo Arts Awards Dinner and Auction helps support the Paseo Arts Association's mission and programming year-round. Come out for a night of festivities and celebrate the arts!
2026 AWARDEES
JOHN WOLFE:
Lifetime Achievement Award
This award honors a person who has spent his/her life contributing to the enhancement of the arts in Oklahoma, either as an artist, supporter, arts educator or arts administrator.
MATT GOAD:
Artist of the Year
This award recognizes an emerging or established artist who has distinguished themselves and their profession during the past year.
SUE HALE
Special Recognition Award
This award honors an individual whose creative practice has made a distinctive and meaningful impact on the arts community—shaping experiences, inspiring others and leaving a lasting mark on the community.
KLINT SCHOR:
Emerging Artist Award
This award recognizes an artist that has emerged onto the Oklahoma art scene within the past few years and has contributed to the diversity and growth of art and culture in Oklahoma.
OKLAHOMA SHAKESPEARE
Creative Placemaking Award
Honors a person/group who has made substantial contributions to strengthening creative communities, making the role of art essential in enhancing local character for positive economic development and community outcomes.