ASPEN.- Anderson Ranch Arts Center, a premier destination in America for art making and critical dialogue since 1966, celebrates creativity and service to the arts by recognizing the accomplishments and contributions of key figures in the art world. This summer, as part of a week of 50th Anniversary events, Anderson Ranch will honor Carrie Mae Weems with the National Artist Award and Eleanore and Domenico De Sole with the Service to the Arts Award at its 20th Annual Recognition Dinner. The gala evening will take place July 21, 2016.

“There is no better way to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Anderson Ranch than by recognizing an artist like Carrie Mae Weems, whose work speaks so clearly to the human experience. We are delighted to honor her as our 2016 National Artist Award honoree,” said Nancy Wilhelms, Executive Director of Anderson Ranch. “In such a special year, we are particularly pleased to recognize world-class collectors and passionate patrons of the arts, Eleanore and Domenico De Sole, with our Service to the Arts Award in honor of their tireless commitment to the advancement of art.”

Upon the announcement of the award, Carrie Mae Weems responded, “To be given the National Artist Award, an award that has, in the past, been given to such illustrious artists like Frank Stella, Theaster Gates and Cindy Sherman, among others, is such an incredible honor. I am a working girl who is so consumed and engaged with my work that I’m often surprised when anyone takes note. It’s therefore humbling and an honor to be given this award from Anderson Ranch.”

“We could not be more honored than to receive the Service to the Arts Award from Anderson Ranch,” said Eleanore and Domenico De Sole. “It is very special coming from such a highly regarded institution, especially during the Ranch’s 50th anniversary year.”

Hosted at the height of Aspen’s summer season, the Recognition Dinner brings together art world luminaries and supporters to enjoy a festive evening of celebration and fundraising, including cocktails, dinner and a live auction, featuring works by leading contemporary artists.