HEARTS FOR THE ARTS 2021 winners announced - recognising UK's unsung local authority Arts heroes
The winners for the annual National Campaign for the Arts’ Hearts for the Arts Awards 2021 have been announced today.
The awards celebrate the unsung heroes of Local Authorities who are championing the arts against all odds.
A record breaking number of nominations were received this year as local communities turned to the arts for solace, strength and connectivity during the pandemic.
The three winners picking up awards in the Best Arts category are: radio programme N17 (Haringey Council), Create & Learn PlayKits (London Borough of Wandsworth Arts Service) and community arts festival Arts E-Live (Mole Valley District Council); alongside Andy Dawson (Inspire Youth Arts) and Councillor Janet Emsley (Rochdale Borough Council) who pick up Best Arts Champion awards.
The esteemed judging panel included drag and cabaret performer Le Gateau Chocolat, TV presenter Helen Czerski, broadcaster Mariella Frostrup, composer Paul Hartnoll, actor Adrian Lester CBE, comedian Francesca Martinez, Cultural Development Manager Petra Roberts and Chair of the National Campaign for the Arts, Samuel West.
West said: “In a world that badly needs good news, we can now cheer our 2021 Hearts for the Arts winners to the skies. Surrounded by loss, separation and loneliness, these people, these projects show the joy and comfort councils and trusts can bring when they put art and creativity at the centre of community life.”
The awards ceremony is to take place virtually on Wednesday 3 March, with places available to book now here.
For more information on the shortlisted nominees, please click here.
