Whew. June.
It came in like a lion, dressed in abundance, clothed in beauty, and wrapped in unexpected grief. While prepping for one of the most magical nights of the year, our Annual Arts Awards, I received a call that stopped me in my tracks. My stepfather, who had been married to my mother for over 30 years, transitioned. Just like that, the spotlight shifted from stage lights to real life. As fate would have it, the very day we were to celebrate the brilliance of Augusta’s creative community, I was en route to Wichita, Kansas, my hometown to hold space for my mom and walk with her through this heavy, sacred moment.
Though I was heartbroken to miss the event, I knew I had three fiercely capable and intelligent team members at the helm. And let me just say, they delivered. For the first time in the Greater Augusta Arts Council’s history, our awards embraced a broader vision, recognizing 17 extraordinary creatives across multiple disciplines, including our bright light Emerging Artist. From musicians to muralists, thespians to photographers our city showed up and showed out. I’ve heard nothing but love, excellence, and pure joy about the evening, and to every award recipient: we see you, we celebrate you, and your work matters. The seeds you plant through your art are growing something beautiful in this city.
Kansas was surreal. Grieving in the same city that raised me stirred up memories I hadn’t dusted off in years. Still, the trip wasn’t without its gifts. I got to walk alongside my mama in her sorrow, and when it was time, we packed her up and took that 17-hour road trip back to Georgia. It was a journey full of tears, storytelling, gas station snacks, and some much-needed quiet. Sometimes the road becomes the balm and sometimes healing sounds like two women singing gospel off-key with the windows down and the past in the rearview.
Now? It’s showtime again. We are full steam ahead preparing for Arts in the Heart of Augusta, one of the most beloved cultural celebrations in the Southeast. All stage applications are in, artists selected, permits and footprint secured. We’ve got five dynamic stages, global eats, fine arts and crafts, and a few surprises up our sleeves. But we stillhave room for more: sponsors, volunteers, partners in joy. If you’ve ever wanted to be part of something bigger than yourself this is it. Slide in, lace up, link arms. We’re creating magic.
And hey, if you haven’t been tuning in to Talk Artsy to Me, my weekly radio show on Perry Broadcasting, you’re truly missing out. It’s the intersection of soul and creativity with a splash of real talk. I’m highlighting local talent, talking shop with cultural changemakers, and laughing through the chaos. Consider it your weekly dose of inspiration with a side of sass. Tap in.
As for the July 4th weekend? You can catch me on the water, floating somewhere between relaxation and survival mode aboard a Carnival Cruise. Pray for smooth seas, decent Wi-Fi, and minimal line dancing. When I return, it’s go-time, baby. August and September are loaded with creative happenings, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Let’s hear it for the artists. Let’s hear it for the healers. Let’s hear it for the art lovers and dream chasers. Let’s hear it for this community. Let’s hear it for the ARTS.
Peace, Art, Love
Denise