The Excellence in the Arts Awards are designed to honor and celebrate persons and organizations that contribute to the vibrancy of the arts and culture and increase access to arts experiences in Thousand Oaks.

2017 Award Categories
The arts are defined as visual and performing arts, including but not limited to music, dance, theater, painting, sculpture, photography and traditional/folk art.  For these specific awards, the arts do not include literary arts. All winners may be asked to participate in city events, either by serving as an Arts Ambassador or through performance or exhibition opportunities. Philanthropy, while important, is not considered to be a factor in the criteria for any award.

1. Community Impact
   The Community Impact Award is presented to a person or organization who has inspired and encouraged the arts and culture in Thousand Oaks in a creative or innovative way. The winner will be notable in the community memory for years to come because of an emphasis on some or all of the following: a) bringing together organizations or people in the arts, b) elevating the arts and culture through visionary leadership, creativity, advocacy and volunteerism, and c) inspiring and encouraging artists and arts groups in the areas of innovation, outreach, inclusiveness and access.
2. Emerging Arts Leadership
   The Emerging Arts Leadership Award is presented to a person or organization demonstrating the potential to influence and elevate the arts and culture through outstanding vision, leadership and creativity.  Age is not a factor in this award.
3. Exceptional Arts Education
   The Exceptional Arts Education Award is presented to an individual or organization for excellent work in and significant contributions to arts education, either a) through enhancing the education curriculum within the school system, or b) through creating educational opportunities in the arts outside the school setting. 
4. Artist of the Year
   The Artist of the Year Award recognizes a dedicated individual’s excellence and accomplishments in an arts discipline.  This award is for unique vision, high artistic quality, creativity and innovation.
5. The Mayor’s Award
   The Mayor’s Award is granted each year to a recipient chosen by the Mayor of Thousand Oaks. There are not parameters or restrictions for this award, which is up to the sole discretion of the current mayor.

The award determination is based on the award criteria listed below and the category definitions detailed on the award nomination form. Nomination deadline is Friday, July 28th (extended - originally was the 20th) at 4pm. Learn more at www.toaks.org/departments/cultural-affairs/arts-awards.