About the Cleveland Arts Prize

Cleveland Arts Prize promotes creativity in northeast Ohio by awarding artists for artistic excellence and recognizing community leaders who help regional arts flourish.

Established in 1960 by the Women’s City Club, CAP stands as the nation’s oldest municipal arts award and is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the exceptional arts community that enriches our vibrant region.

At CAP, we have proudly celebrated over 400 remarkable artists, cultural leaders, and organizations since our inception. Our Discipline Prizes, each valued at $10,000, are bestowed upon artists across all disciplines and at every level of practice, acknowledging their exemplary contributions to the arts landscape.

In addition to recognizing artistic excellence, CAP honors individuals with Special Prizes for their outstanding advocacy, community service, and leadership in the arts. We believe in fostering a community where creativity and leadership go hand in hand.

Through our dynamic partnerships, including collaborations with the Cleveland Foundation and various community organizations, the Verge Fellowship provides a $2,000 stipend to emerging artists at the outset of their practice. This initiative spans all artistic disciplines, supporting and nurturing the next generation of talent.

Moreover, CAP is deeply committed to empowering the educational journey of aspiring artists. In collaboration with local high schools and colleges, we award scholarships in Literature, Visual Arts, Dance, and Music to commend outstanding academic achievement.

At the core of our mission is a dedication to enhancing the quality of life in our region. CAP believes in supporting, cultivating, and honoring artistic excellence to create a thriving cultural tapestry that enriches the lives of all who call northeast Ohio home.

Join us in celebrating the diverse and vibrant arts community that defines Cleveland. Explore the possibilities, embrace the creativity, and become a part of the Cleveland Arts Prize legacy.