Raleigh Medal of Arts

Based on the National Medal of Arts program and inaugurated by the Raleigh Arts Commission in 1984, the Raleigh Medal of Arts is awarded for transformative, imaginative, and innovative achievement in the practice or support of the local arts.

Program History

Since 1984, Raleigh Arts has awarded 164 Medals to the artists, performers, organizations, and visionary leaders who have worked to make Raleigh a vibrant, connected, and creative City.

In 2022, the program’s guidelines, eligibility, and evaluation criteria were revised in addition to an increase in the variety of nominations and the creation of award categories. The award now better reflects the demographics of Raleigh and Wake County, a goal laid out in the City’s strategic arts plan.

Award Categories

• Community Arts
• Youth Arts
• Belonging in the Arts
• Creativity & Innovation
• Public Art & Creative Placemaking
• Leadership in the Arts
• Raising Awareness of the Arts
• Funding & Philanthropy

Awards are made based on merit, as determined by the selection criteria. Awards are not necessarily made in every category, nor are there a predetermined number of awards in a category in any given year.

2024 Raleigh Medal of Arts

The City of Raleigh Arts Commission will present twelve of the City’s highest honors in the arts on October 8 at the Medal of Arts Awards Ceremony at the Raleigh Little Theatre. 

Learn more about the 2024 Medal of Arts.