According to a press release from Ogden City Arts received this week. during a private event at Ogden Union Station on Nov. 6, six artists were recognized with the Ogden City Mayor’s Awards in the Arts.

“The Ogden City Mayor’s Awards in the Arts program was created to provide an opportunity to shine a light on the recognition of individual artists and arts organizations that are making a difference in the community through the arts,” the release said. “Each year, the public is invited to take a moment to nominate a deserving artist, art advocate, or organization for an award.”

Ogden Mayor Ben Nadolski said that these six honorees have made huge contributions to the city.

“Art is essential to who we are as a community, it tells our stories, lifts our voices, and reflects the spirit of Ogden,” he said in the release. “These honorees are more than artists; they are community builders who make our city stronger, more vibrant, and more connected. It is a privilege to celebrate their contributions.”

The 2025 Mayor’s Awards in the Arts honorees included:

• Lifetime Contribution — Pat Poce
• Performing Arts — Jean Louise England
• Visual Arts — Steve Stones
• Arts in Education — Angelika Pagel
• Folk Art — Rene Venegas
• Legacy in the Arts — Julia Aldrich (posthumous award)

Regina Esparza — marketing and communications coordinator for Ogden City Arts, Culture & Events — told the Standard-Examiner in an email Wednesday that honorees are selected through a community-driven process.

“Every year, we invite the public to nominate individuals, organizations, and businesses who have made meaningful contributions to the arts in Ogden,” she said. “Those nominations are then carefully reviewed by the Ogden City Arts Advisory Committee, a volunteer body made up of artists, cultural professionals, and engaged community members. They evaluate each nominee based on impact, service, leadership, and commitment to the arts. After their review, the committee provides recommendations to the Mayor, who makes the final selection. It’s a thoughtful process that ensures our honorees truly reflect the heart and creativity of our community.”

She said this year’s selection of artists was very strong.

“This year’s honorees are an incredible representation of the talent, dedication, and vision that make Ogden’s arts community so special,” she said. “Each recipient has contributed something unique, whether it’s inspiring others through education, strengthening our cultural organizations, creating meaningful art, or building spaces where creativity can thrive. What stands out most to me this year is the diversity of contributions. These honorees highlight the many ways art enriches our city, and their work truly embodies what the Mayor’s Awards are meant to celebrate: passion, service, and a deep commitment to community.”

Esparza said that this is one of Ogden City Arts’ most anticipated events of the year.

“The Mayor’s Awards in the Arts is one of our favorite traditions because it shines a light on people who often do their work quietly, behind the scenes, simply because they love this community,” she said. “Recognizing them publicly brings our arts community together and reminds us how much creativity strengthens Ogden’s identity. We are grateful to everyone who supports the arts, our honorees, our partners, and the community members who show up, participate, and keep the arts alive. Ogden’s creative spirit is strong, and events like this help us celebrate that collective energy.”

For more information, visit www.ogdencity.gov/mayorsawards.