He’s been a renowned Columbus artist for years. Now he has a state award from the governor
Columbus artist Garry Pound is among the 10 recipients of the 2024 Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities.
This is the 13th year the governor has presented the awards in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities to honor people and organizations for significant contributions to the state in those fields.
“A vibrant arts scene and culture are essential ingredients in the recipe that makes Georgia the best place to live, work and raise a family,” Gov. Brian Kemp said in a news release. “Thank you to these exceptional Georgians and organizations for their dedicated work in these fields that have made a long-lasting impact on our cultural fabric.”
Pound has been a prominent artist for decades, known for portraits, landscapes and illustrations. He also has been involved in historic preservation, restoring numerous properties in the city. He has served as a board member for the Columbus Museum, Columbus Symphony Orchestra and Historic Columbus Foundation.
His work has been published in the children’s book “Olivatown” (a collaboration with author Allen Levi of Harris County), architectural guides and nonfiction books. He also sings in the choir at Trinity Episcopal Church.
And at Fountain City Coffee, he is known as the artist who drew more than 90 portraits of customers to decorate the walls at the downtown Columbus café.
“Being named as a recipient of the Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities is such a fulfilling yet humbling recognition,” Pound said in a news release. “I am deeply grateful for the decades of unwavering support from my community – near and far. Because of those believing in my work, I plan to continue creating and sharing my passion for years to come.”
Nominations may be submitted online at gaarts.org or georgiahumanities.org by any resident of Georgia, except those working for organizations involved with selecting the award winners. Levi nominated Pound.
A panel of representatives from the Georgia Council for the Arts board, Georgia Humanities board and the Governor’s Office selected this year’s 10 honorees out of 30 nominees, spokeswoman Allie Dean told the Ledger-Enquirer.
This story was originally published December 16, 2024 at 6:00 AM.
