Arts Connect honored five community leaders during the 2026 Lexington Arts Awards, recognizing their contributions to the arts through creativity, education, advocacy, and philanthropy.
Among this year's recipients was WUKY sponsor Dr. James Albisetti, who received the Arts Benefactor Award.
"It was very gratifying. It's not necessary. I didn't give money to get awards," Albisetti said. "Opportunity to have so many people from so many different places in my life in the room together it was really something— It sort of felt like I was at my own memorial service."
Other honorees included:
- Pat Gerhard (Visual Arts)
- George Ella Lyon (Literary Arts)
- Adalhi Aranda (Performing Arts)
- Austin Vahle (Arts Educator)
The annual awards celebrate individuals whose work strengthens Lexington's arts community and inspires future generations through creativity, education, and cultural engagement.
