Silvermine Arts Center Announces Living Art Awards 2019

From Silvermine Arts: Silvermine Arts Center presented its 4th annual Living Art Awards on Sat., May 11, at the Stamford Yacht Club in Shippan. The awards honor individuals and organizations that have contributed to the arts in a significant way both at Silvermine and in the community at large. As it nears it centenary, Silvermine shines a spotlight on these visionaries, who are committed to enriching lives through art’s transformative power.

The Living Art Award Corporate Honoree for 2019 is Diageo, a global leader in beverage alcohol. Committed to reducing its environmental impact in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals while at the same time actively supporting local communities, Diageo has helped make Silvermine’s outreach education programs possible, enriching the lives of students in Norwalk and Stamford. Svetlin Tchakarov accepted the award. “Operating in a responsible and sustainable way every day, everywhere, means that we support our communities,” said Tchakarov.

Legacy Award Winner Pamela Davis came to painting after a career in finance and served as Silvermine’s Executive Director between 2007 and 2010. She began her art career with Vijay Kumar at the Center for Contemporary Printmaking and now studies with David Dunlop at Silvermine. She is a member of the Silvermine Guild. “Silverminehas been a center of creative learning for me over the past 15 years. I’ve witnessed artistic growth and joy in so many students—young and not so young. I am so fortunate to be part of this unique institution.” said Davis, who is being honored for her leadership, generosity and artistic achievement. The 2019 Artist Award was presented to painter and printmaker Fran Meehan. Meehan won her first Best in Show at age 19 while a student of graphic design at Parsons. She found her way back to art and to Silvermine many years later after raising a family. As a way to give back to the community she loves, Fran has co-chaired several annual PrintShows and has served on the Board of Trustees including terms as Vice Chair and Chair. She is a member of the Silvermine Guild and the Monotype Guild of New England. Her work has been exhibited throughout the Northeast and in many private and corporate collections.

Silvermine honored Diana and Lyman Delano with the Philanthropy Award for their long-term commitment and significant support. As a pottery student, Lyman made an initial investment in the Soda Kiln project, which then spurred other students to donate. Faculty Member and Pottery Studio Manager Jon Puzzuoli commented “Lyman was one of the very first students I had when I started at Silvermine four years ago. His kindness and support of fellow students helped establish my love for the school….His long continued support of the School of Art and the pottery studio is deeply felt.” Diageo and the Stamford Yacht Club sponsored the annual benefit and awards ceremony. David Dunlop, Faculty, Guild and Board member, and Stephanie Joyce, Guild and Board member, served as Co-chairs of the event.