Art Spark Texas annually honors artists in the discipline of visual art, dance, music, theater, performance art, craft, media and writing. Each year, the Artist of the Year Awards are given to Texas artists who embody the spirit and vision of Art Spark Texas, and who challenge the perceptions of how people contribute by demonstrating artistic excellence or leading the way as a community catalyst for change. Invite your friends and family for this free community event and help us honor our artist winners!

Artist Awards are in 4 Categories:

The Haven Street-Allen Artist of the Year Award honors an individual whose work affirms that the power of an artistic spirit, combined with determination and will, can influence and shape our society. Each year, this award is given to an artist with a disability in Texas who embodies the vision of Art Spark Texas.

The Lynn Marie Johnson Media Arts Award honors an artist who displays passion and commitment to the promotion and awareness of people with disabilities in our digital world. Each year, this award is given to an artist with a disability in Texas whose work as producer, artist, writer, director or other creative in the media arts embodies the mission of Art Spark Texas.

The SPARK Award honors an up-and-coming artist who represents the inclusive, arts-inspired world that Art Spark Texas works to create every day. Each year, this award is given to an emerging Texas artist with a disability whose infectious and innovative spirit shifts perceptions of what people with disabilities can achieve.

The Gloria Bond Creative Aging Award honors an older artist who continues to express their creativity and/or demonstrates a willingness to explore new art forms as they age. Each year, this award is given to a Texas artist who exemplifies the vital aging philosophy of Art Spark Texas. Nominations are open to any individual over the age of 65 years in any discipline, including visual art, dance, music, performance, craft, media and writing.

Each award includes an honorarium and an invitation to attend our annual event as a guest of honor to be publicly recognized for their achievements. The 2025 event will be in Austin on Sunday, September 21st, 2025 from 1-4 pm at the Rollins Theatre. Travel expenses will be covered for out-of-town awardees.

A panel of judges will jury nominations and the results will be announced in June 2025.