The Pennyroyal Arts Council has named Lily Hughes and Heather Winkler as the 2025 recipients of the esteemed Barbara Gardner Art Award. These honorees were selected for their outstanding creativity, dedication to diversity, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of the arts.
Hughes, this year’s student recipient, is an emerging visual artist with a passion for storytelling. Her creative vision includes developing a unique series of characters and narratives. With support from the award, she plans to invest in art supplies and continue advancing her skills as she works toward her artistic goals.
Winkler, recipient of the educator award, has been recognized for her commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering classroom experience. She plans to use the award to expand her curriculum by incorporating high-quality prints and teaching materials that reflect a diverse range of artists, particularly from historically underrepresented communities. Her goal is to create a learning environment where every student feels seen, inspired, and encouraged to explore their own identities through art.
The Barbara Gardner Art Award honors the legacy of a beloved educator and arts advocate. The award celebrates both promising young artists and educators who make a lasting impact through inclusive teaching.
The 2025 awards were presented during a special ceremony attended by Gardner’s children, Amy Berry and Mark Gardner, who shared their gratitude for the continued celebration of their mother’s enduring legacy.
