The Shreveport Regional Arts Council (SRAC) was among a group of individuals and organizations honored by Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu at an Awards Ceremony on October 29, 2009 at the kick-off event in New Orleans for the Louisiana Cultural Economy Summit and the World Cultural Economic Forum. Recipients of these First Louisiana Culture Awards, presented by The Office of the Lt. Governor, the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism and the Office of Cultural Development, were selected based on their valuable contributions to Louisiana's authentic culture and its unique role in the state's identity and economy. SRAC was selected to receive the award for their outstanding contribution as a Nonprofit Organization in the Large Category (An arts/culturally-oriented 501(3) nonprofit organization with a budget size of $750,000 or more that has made an outstanding contribution to its cultural discipline or the state’s cultural life.).
"Keeping culture alive throughout the state is crucial to our economic survival," Lt. Governor Landrieu said at the Awards Ceremony. "By honoring those who contribute to the culture of our state we acknowledge the impact they have on every aspect of Louisiana livelihood, encouraging their continued contribution and for others to take part in our rich culture."
SRAC has been the catalyst for arts expansion in Northwest Louisiana. Initiatives have included the opening of artspace-the area’s first arts center, Triumph Over Tragedy-commemorating the Great Depression/New Deal Era, and their annual ArtBreak Festival-the South’s largest student arts festival. SRAC has also been the driving force behind the creation of the Eye 20 Creative Corridor uniting three arts councils across North Louisiana to promote arts for all. SRAC was also the recipient of the Governor’s Award in 1994 in a similar category.
Pam Atchison, SRAC Executive Director shared, “The recognition that SRAC receives from the state is important to our community as it signifies the quality of arts programming in Northwest Louisiana and the valuable work being done by not only SRAC but the many artists and arts organizations in this region. The actual award is in the form of a sculptural gourd designed by artist, Susan Breeland, a SRAC Visual Arts Fellowship Recipient …it is an honor for the State to recognize the Culture Award recipients with a gift of Susan’s gorgeous work.
