NASHVILLE – Governor Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee recognized recipients of the 2025 Tennessee Governor’s Arts Awards, Tennessee’s highest honor in the arts. Since 1971, the Governor’s Arts Awards have celebrated those who have made outstanding contributions to the state’s cultural life.
In an awards ceremony held at the Executive Residence Conservation Hall on October 13, 2025, Governor and First Lady Lee honored 11 recipients with the Tennessee Governor’s Arts Award. The recipients who represent the best in arts and culture in Tennessee join only 259 others who have also received the award over the past 52 years.
“Tennessee has a rich artistic heritage that tells the story of our great state,” Gov. Lee said. “Through their artistry, talents, and traditions, these outstanding recipients make Tennessee a special place to call home. Maria and I congratulate each of them, and we are proud of their accomplishments.”
The recipients come from all walks of life and symbolize the tremendous variety of the arts and culture of Tennessee. The Governor’s Arts Awards were presented in three different categories—Distinguished Artist, Arts Leadership and Folklife Heritage. This year a Lifetime Achievement award was presented for only the third time in the awards history to the Grand Ole Opry.
“The evening was a tribute to the importance of the arts in our communities and the difference the recipients make in the lives of people in the state,” said Anne B. Pope, executive director of the Tennessee Arts Commission.
The arts help build stronger communities by enhancing quality of life and the distinctive character of Tennessee places. The 2025 recipients of the Governor’s Arts Awards have each contributed significantly to defining who we are as a state.
The 2025 Governor’s Arts Awards recipients are:
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
The Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
Photo: 2025 Tennessee Governor’s Arts Awards recipients and committee members with Gov. Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee at a reception in the Governor’s Residence. Top Row L to R: Stephanie Conner (TN Arts Commission), Anne B. Pope (TN Arts Commission), Colin Reed (The Grand Ole Opry), Sierra Hull, Cristy Dunn, Helen Turner, Deanie Parker, Shawn Pitts, Anne Brown; Bottom Row L to R: Steve Cropper, Lewis Snyder, Jenny Boyd (TN Arts Commission), First Lady Maria Lee, Governor Bill Lee, Paul Brewster, James “Sparky” Rucker | Photo/Theresa Montgomery
