This is a closed category with no nomination process - the judging panel will select the winner/s.

Recognising an outstanding partnership which has demonstrated an innovative way of working to achieve respective goals. Activities must have taken place between September 2023 and the end of September 2024.

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 September 2023 and the end of September 2024.

Awarded to an event or exhibition that has taken place in the North East between September 2023 and the end of September 2024 that has stood out from the crowd by inspiring, engaging, educating, exciting or entertaining audiences.

This award is to recognise a North East museum or cultural venue that has contributed to the community through innovative projects and service excellence.

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.

Recognising any North East-based writer, artist, performer or visual artist who came to the public’s attention for the first time between September 2023 and the end of September 2024.

For an individual, group or company who, between September 2023 and the end of September 2024, put on a special performance in the North East which moved or inspired. Examples could include dance, music, theatre or comedy.

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 September 2023 and the end of September 2024.

To reward a special achievement in the arts by an individual or group aged 18 or under. Activities must have taken place between September 2023 and the end of September 2024.

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 September 2023 and the end of September 2024.

Recognising an author, playwright, screenwriter or poet who has had outstanding work published or performed. Activities must have taken place between September 2023 and the end of September 2024.

The Arts Council believes that everyone should be able to participate or experience creativity and culture, wherever they live and whatever their background, and that engaging in cultural experiences can be truly life-changing.

~ What was your highlight of the last year from among the fantastic range of arts and cultural activity in the North East?

~ What did you enjoy seeing or taking part in?

The Arts Council England Award is looking for nominations of artistic performances, events or cultural organisations that have made a positive difference to your life this year – it could be a theatre show, a festival, a museum creative play session, joining a craft session or visiting the library.