Categories
BEST ARTS & BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP
Recognising an outstanding partnership which has demonstrated an innovative way of working to achieve respective goals. Activities must have taken place between July 2022 and October 2023.

BEST ARTS & EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP
Recognising an outstanding partnership which has demonstrated how working together can unite and improve cultural education for children and young people in our region. Activities must have taken place between July 2022 and October 2023.

BEST EVENT OR EXHIBITION
Awarded to an event or exhibition that has taken place in the North East between July 2022 and October 2023 that has stood out from the crowd by inspiring, engaging, educating, exciting or entertaining audiences.

HERITAGE AWARD
A new award for 2023, recognising individuals, projects, organisations, community groups or an event/exhibition focused on restoring, conserving or promoting the rich heritage of the North East - whether it’s a site or structure, property, artefacts, or the values and traditions of the region.
BEST MUSEUM OR CULTURAL VENUE
This award is to recognise a North East museum or cultural venue that has contributed to the community through innovative projects and service excellence.
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
Recognising any North East-based writer, artist, performer or visual artist who came to the public’s attention for the first time between July 2022 and October 2023.

PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR
For an individual, group or company who, between July 2022 and October 2023, put on a special performance in the North East which moved or inspired. Examples could include dance, music, theatre or comedy.

PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Recognising an individual performer or group that has stood out from the crowd. Nominations welcome for all performers: dancers, musicians, singers, performance poets, comedians etc. Nominations could be for one performance or several. Activities must have taken place between July 2022 and October 2023.

SPECIAL AWARD FOR YOUNG ACHIEVEMENT
To reward a special achievement in the arts by an individual or group aged 18 or under. Activities must have taken place between July 2022 and October 2023.
VISUAL ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Recognising a North East-based artist whose work has left a lasting impression. It will be given for an individual piece of work or an exhibition. Activities must have taken place between July 2022 and October 2023.
WRITER OF THE YEAR
Recognising an author, playwright, screenwriter or poet who has had outstanding work published or performed. Activities must have taken place between July 2022 and October 2023.
OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION / SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD
This is a closed category with no nomination process - the judging panel will select the winner/s.
