Governor’s Arts Awards Announces 6 New Recipients in Montana

As an artist, I couldn't imagine being in a better place than Montana for creating art.  Between picturesque mountain vistas and valleys to the planes; wonderful wildlife and unpredictable weather have all been put to a canvas.

Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

Some artists go above and beyond just creating art for the masses.  They inspire others to create art in many forms; from a brush to pencil and even in musical arts.  Six of those incredible creators are now being honored by the Montana Arts Council.

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Governor's Arts Awards Announces 6 New Recipients in Montana

The Montana Arts Council presents on behalf of the Governor's Office the Governor's Arts Awards every 2 years in Montana.  The awards "recognize achievement and artistic excellence, dedication to Montana, ongoing contributions to the cultural community, and worthiness of recognition."

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Governor Gianforte praised the recipients, stating that "For generations, the Treasure State has stirred the creativity of writers, artists, and musicians, and we’re glad to honor these individuals for their talents."

6 Unique Category Winners Include a Famous Rocker from Montana

For 2026, the Montana Arts Council and the Governor's Office awards feature 6 separate people in unique categories.  Recipients of the Governor's Art Awards this year include:

• Rock Star Jeff Ament of Missoula
• Landscape Painter Clyde Aspevig of Bozeman
• Stained Glass Artist David Fjeld of Bozeman
• Ceramicist Sarah Jaeger of Helena
• Baroque and Classical Violinist Carrie Krause of Bozeman
• Western Engraver Diane Scalese of Big Sandy

Neilson Barnard, Getty Images

Award winners will be honored at a ceremony on Thursday, December 3 at 2pm in the Old Supreme Court Chamber of the Montana State Capitol in Helena.  The event will also be broadcast on the Television Montana (TVMT), the statewide government broadcasting service.