Yesterday in Frankfort, KY, Governor Steve Beshear honored nine of the Commonwealth’s most creative people and organizations with Governor’s Awards in the Arts.
Among those presented with an award was Bowling Green native and bluegrass superstar, Sam Bush, who travelled with his wife Lynn from their Nashville home to accept in person. He received the prestigious National Award for Kentuckians whose reach has been felt well outside the borders of the state.
As Governor Besmear said in presenting the awards…
“These awardees represent such a rich diversity of background and experience, but they have in common that they have risen above and beyond in their commitment to hone and refine their respective talents. In the case of the organizations we’re also honoring, they have demonstrated a remarkable and fervent commitment to creating an art-friendly community where they live.”
Reached today, Sam was a bit taken aback by the award.
“I’m still overwhelmed to be one of the nine recipients for the Governor’s Awards in the Arts.
As a kid who grew up on a farm outside of Bowling Green, I never dreamed I would be standing with the Governor of Kentucky being honored for playing my instrument. To be the musician among this very eclectic group with all this talent was amazing.”
Also recognized were:
- Linda Pigman Fifield, McKee, Artist Award
- Big Ass Solutions (manufacturer of Big Ass Fans), Lexington, Business Award
- Creative Diversity Studio, Louisville, Community Arts Award
- Nathan Link, Danville, Education Award
- Willie D. Rascoe, Hopkinsville, Folk Heritage Award
- Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau, Paducah, Government Award
- Dave Shuffett, Nicholasville, Media Award
All of them were presented a stylized trophy created by Kentucky folk artist Minnie Adkins, in the form of a rooster, which Sam says will receive a place of honor in his home.
“The trophy is so unique. We have a few trophies around the house, but nothing like this. It’s really a piece of art.
The state of Kentucky is really tuned in to the arts side of things.
The Governor was really nice to me, and made us all feel welcome.”
Bush’s many accomplishments in bluegrass are outlined on a page at the Kentucky Arts Council’s web site.
Congratulations Sam Bush. An honor well-deserved!
