Governor Ryan Announces Recipient of the Illinois Arts Council Governor's Award for the Arts

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor Ryan today announced that Don Baum, a widely acclaimed visual artist and educator, will be honored with the Illinois Arts Council Governor's Award for Lifetime Achievement at a 6:00 p.m. ceremony in the Center for the Arts on Wednesday, April 17.

First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan will also be recognized for her support of the arts and Illinois artisans.

Mr. Baum is recognized as the central figure of the Chicago Imagist School, bringing international attention to Chicago and its vibrant arts community. As the Director of Exhibitions of the prestigious Hyde Park Art Center, Mr. Baum's influence provided a forum that inspired the Imagist arts movement, fostering a unique environment to support the work of young and emerging artists.

Mr. Baum was Chairman of the Art Department at Roosevelt University for 33 years and the first Visual Arts Director at the Illinois Arts Council, creating individual artist programs that continue to service the community today.

The Illinois Arts Council (IAC) will hold its council meeting before the awards ceremony at 1:15 p.m. at the Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth Street, in Springfield. For information on the council meeting or the awards ceremony please contact the Illinois Arts Council at 312/814-6762.