2026 AMOCAT Arts Awards Celebrate Tacoma's Cultural Champions
The Tacoma Arts Commission proudly presents this year's AMOCAT Arts Award recipients: Tacoma Public Library (Arts Patron), Remakery and Mi Centro (Community Outreach by an Organization), and Saiyare Refaei and Irina Rasputnis (Community Outreach by an Individual). These esteemed honorees exemplify how artistic passion cultivates meaningful community connections and innovative cultural initiatives.
Arts Patron Award
Recognizing exceptional dedication to arts enrichment, Tacoma Public Library receives this honor for fostering inclusive spaces where creativity thrives. With eight neighborhood locations offering free resources and dynamic programming, the Library serves as a catalyst for discovery across Tacoma's diverse communities.
Through strategic partnerships like Tacoma Creates, the Library expands access to cultural experiences while nurturing collaborative networks among local arts organizations. Its Community Hub at Main Branch provides shared resources and hosts signature events such as Wayzgoose and Tacoma Reads, strengthening civic bonds through shared artistic experiences.
Community Outreach by an Organization Award
Remakery and Mi Centro receive recognition for advancing equitable arts engagement. Remakery transforms discarded materials into creative opportunities through workshops and community events, while Mi Centro delivers comprehensive support to Latinx and Indigenous families through culturally responsive programming spanning education and the arts.
Community Outreach by an Individual Award
Artists Saiyare Refaei and Irina Rasputnis demonstrate how individual creativity builds community bridges. Saiyare's multidisciplinary practice connects through murals and poetry, while Irina's festivals create joyful gathering spaces that celebrate Tacoma's diverse neighborhoods.
The awards ceremony will take place September 30, 2026 at 5 p.m. during Tacoma Arts Month celebrations at City Hall.
Departments:Arts and Cultural Vitality Office | Community and Economic Development
Topics: Arts
Share: Funding Opportunities 2026-2027 | Funded Community Projects | Annual Report Highlights