News from the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders
Shanel Y. Robinson, Freeholder Director | Sara Sooy, Freeholder Deputy Director
Brian D. Levine, Freeholder | Brian G. Gallagher, Freeholder | Melonie Marano, Freeholder
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2021
Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission
Announces 2021 Arts Award Winners
SOMERVILLE – The Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission has announced the winners of the 2021 Excellence in the Arts Awards. The program honors individuals and organizations that show exemplary leadership and dedication to the fine and performing arts in Somerset County. This year’s winners include three individuals and six organizations. Award recipients were selected by a committee appointed by the Cultural & Heritage Commission.
The public is invited to the virtual awards ceremony that will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 7. Registration is required in advance by visiting: https://bit.ly/ExcellArtsCeremony21. The works of the winners will be featured throughout the evening.
“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Arts and Humanities month than with the announcement of the 2021 Excellence in the Arts Awards,” said County Commissioner Melonie Marano, Cultural & Heritage Commission liaison. “Our 2021 winners have a wide range of talents, from keeping ancient and traditional art forms alive to encouraging creativity that uplifts and heals. Their work helps to make Somerset County a vibrant, welcoming and safe space to live, work and play. We are so grateful for their efforts.”
Recipients of this year’s Arts in Education award are Marcia Jennings of Bridgewater and the Quin Yang Dance Studio Org, located in Franklin Park.
Award recipients for Arts in the Community are: Mitali Bhawmik of Bridgewater; Arts on Division in Somerville; Frontline Arts in Branchburg; Music in the Somerset Hills, Bernardsville; the Bound Brook Cultural Arts Committee; and Downtown Bernardsville.
The 2021 Excellence in the Arts Aspiring Young Artist is Srinaath Kidambi Perangur of Bedminster.
The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners, the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission and Friends of Somerset County Culture & Heritage Inc. sponsor the Excellence in the Arts awards program.
The county Cultural and Heritage Commission is committed to making programs and events accessible to all, including accommodation if needed. For more information, contact the Somerset County Cultural and Heritage Commission at (908) 231-7021 or CulturalHeritage@co.somerset.nj.us.
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