Arts & Entertainment
Awards Ceremony Honors Artists, Celebrates Continuation of Dearborn Arts Education
The annual Mayor's Arts Awards were held Thursday evening at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, and included celebration of current artists, as well as performances by some of tomorrow's great singers and musicians.
The Dearborn Community Arts Council's annual took place Thursday night, and provided not only an opportunity to honor the work of current artists and arts educators, but also a glimpse into the future of Dearborn arts.
"It’s an amazing time for the arts in Dearborn," commented Director of Film Initiatives for Wayne County and longtime Dearborn resident Michael Mosallum, who served as the evening's master of ceremonies. "There’s so many great things going on, from the choral groups, the instrumental groups, amazing fine art all over the city, and now, beautifully with these amazing tax incentives, we have film happening right here in the city of Dearborn."
Held at the , much of the theme of the night centered around passing on a love of the arts–be it theater, music, dance, writing or fine art–onto younger generations of Dearborn residents, and keeping a love of the arts alive in the city.
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"What has made me successful? I give my tribute to the upbringing I had here in the city of Dearborn, growing up in the east end, where the arts were central," said Arts Educator Award recipient Carmelle Siciliano-Atkins, the Vocal Music director for . "I am a product of Dearborn, and I have the ability now to give back."
Other honorees echoed her message that Dearborn has a vibrant arts community that needs to be supported.
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"I'm proud to call Dearborn my home," said Carolynn Blackmore, president of Arts Patron Awarded group the American Association of University Women - Dearborn Chapter. "I'm proud to support the arts in this community."
Siciliano-Atkins went one step further, asking other artists in the community to spread their love of the arts.
"As an arts educator, I ask you to think back to the time in your life when you were touched by a musical experience or any other fine arts experience you had," she said. "Who showed you that? Where were you? This is why you are an advocate for the arts.
"I challenge you to be the one who brings that same experience you received to others."
The audience at the Mayor's Arts Awards had a chance to see that message in action, too, as they heard performances by the Arabic Music Ensemble, as well as the Dearborn Schools Elementary and Secondary Honors Choir.
The Honorees
Jim Walters, The Mayor's Award
Adnan Charara, Artist/Performer Award
Carmelle Siciliano-Atkins, Arts Educator Award
Joan Arrick, DCAC Bravo Award
Benjamin I. Bachrach, Arts Volunteer Award
AAUW- Dearborn, Arts Patron Award
Motor City Brass Band, Organization Award
