ASPEN/SNOWMASS— This summer, Anderson Ranch Arts Center will honor Ai Weiwei with the International Artist Award, and Bunny and Charles Burson with the Service to the Arts Award at its 22ndAnnual Recognition Dinner on July 19, 2018. Anderson Ranch Arts Center, a premier destination in America for art-making and critical dialogue since 1966, celebrates creativity and service to the arts by recognizing the accomplishments and contributions of key figures in the art world.
“Ai Weiwei is one of the top living artists working today, and his artistic output calls attention to the most challenging and divisive issues of our time,” commented Nancy Wilhelms, Executive Director of Anderson Ranch. “Honoring him dovetails with our mission at the Ranch to be a leading platform for art-making and dialogue on issues in contemporary art.”
“We are also thrilled to Honor Bunny and Charles Burson with the Service to the Arts Award,” continued Wilhelms. “They champion the values of Anderson Ranch, and as artists and leaders in the arts themselves, they also exemplify the focus on excellence, rigor and talent that continues to define our campus.”
“My duty as an artist is to associate myself with freedom of expression, and to spark dialogue around urgent issues facing humanity,” commented Ai Weiwei. “We live in a complex and ever-changing society, and my art calls on people to question and engage with that reality, to respond to history as it happens, and to demand accountability.” Ai continued, “I am honored to be recognized by Anderson Ranch Arts Center for my work.”
“As an artist, I can’t overstate the significance of Anderson Ranch Arts Center within the contemporary art world,” commented Bunny Burson. “The organization is a leader in fostering important ideas and dialogues, and brings out our creative spirit. We’re in awe of the committed faculty, the welcoming staff and the accomplished students from around the globe, with whom we are privileged to share our work and lives.”
“We truly consider the Ranch to be a part of us,” added Charles Burson. “We take classes, attend lectures and wholly support the Ranch’s programs, which have changed our lives. We are honored to receive the Service to the Arts Award.”
The Recognition Dinner brings together art world luminaries and supporters for an evening of fun and fundraising, including cocktails, dinner and a live auction.
For information on tables and tickets, please call Anderson Ranch at 970/923.3181 x227.
Proceeds from the evening directly benefit Anderson Ranch educational programs.
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