2003 National Medal of Arts Recipients

The National Medal of Arts, established by Congress in 1984, is awarded by the President to those who have made extraordinary contributions to the creation, growth and support of the arts in the United States. Each year, the Endowment seeks nominations from individuals and organizations across the country. The National Council on the Arts, the Endowment's Presidentially appointed advisory body, reviews the nominations and provides recommendations to the President, who selects the recipients.

Beverly Cleary children's book author, Carmel, CA		Rafe Esquith arts educator, Los Angeles, CA		Suzanne Farrell dancer/company director/educator, Morristown, NJ		Ron Howard actor/director/ writer/producer, Greenwich, CT
Buddy Guy blues musician, Orland Park, IL		Leonard Slatkin symphony orchestra conductor, Washington, D.C.		George Strait country singer, San Antonio, TX		Tommy Tune dancer/actor/ choreographer/ director, New York, NY
Austin City Limits, PBS television program, Austin, TX   Mormon Tabernacle Choir, choral group, Salt Lake City, UT

"These ten remarkable recipients represent decades of significant artistic achievements." said Dana Gioia, Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. "Whether they embodied the grace and drama of great choreography, fired the imaginations of children, created unforgettable movies, or moved us with the passion of many voices, these inspiring people and institutions have made special contributions to the richness of our nation's cultural life."

The National Endowment for the Arts gratefully acknowledges The President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities for its support of the 2003 National Medal of Arts.

For a complete list of past National Medal of Arts recipients, visit http://www.arts.gov/honors/medals/medalists_year.html.

National Endowment for the Arts
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