top of page
IMG_7500_edited.jpg

Every year, the Mayor acknowledges the contributions of artists and/or arts organizations to our city.  A call for nominations are requested from the community-at-large for the Mayor to then choose recipient(s).  These awards are given at the annual Bright Night for the Arts event in November.  The event is a celebration of the arts in Evanston and includes local art and performances.

638034247108270000.jpeg

Bright Night for the Arts

Bright Night for the Arts 2023

The 2023 Bright Night for the Arts was hosted by Mayor Daniel Biss at Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre. Congratulations to awardees renowned jazz musician Chris Greene and the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian!

Past Bright Nights and Awards

2022 Recipients

​

  • Vernon Clark and the Heirs of Joy

  • Evanston Dance Ensemble

  • Evanston Mural Arts Program

​

Anniversaries Recognized:

  • Theo 25th anniversary​

  • Piven Theater Workshop 50th anniversary

​“The arts are fundamentally important to the vibrancy of our city. I am delighted to recognize the work of these three outstanding groups and the joy they have brought through song, dance and murals.”

​

Mayor Biss

2021 Recipients

  • Identity Performing Arts, Ginny Chung-Lin Lo

  • Tim Rhoze

  • Doug Haight

​

Anniversaries Recognized:

  • Evanston Children’s Choir 20th anniversary

  • Evanston Dance Ensemble 25th anniversary

  • Funkadesi 25th anniversary

  • Evanston Symphony Orchestra 75th anniversary

  • Music Institute of Chicago 90th anniversary

2020 Recipients

Equity-Based Art Projects and Distributing Kids' Art Kits:

  • ETHS basketball team and their BLM street painting at the High School

  • Side/Lot and their BLM painting on the Evanston Arts Center lot

  • Dawes school mural

  • Kids Create Change  

  • YEA

  • Open Studio Project

  • Makers Outpost

  • Evanston Made

  • Art Encounter

2019 Recipients

  • Evanston Made

  • Fran Joy

2018 Recipients

  • Harvey Pranian

bottom of page