SKYPAC Honors Champions of the Arts at 2025 Awards Celebration
BOWLING GREEN, Ky.f — The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center proudly celebrated three extraordinary champions of the arts at its 2025 Awards Ceremony on Thursday.
The evening, held in the SKYPAC lobby, featured a cocktail reception, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and heartfelt tributes to individuals whose contributions have elevated the arts across South Central Kentucky.
Russell Faxon, internationally renowned sculptor and creator of the beloved Dancing in the Spirit sculpture on SKYPAC’s Burr Family Plaza, received SKYPAC’s highest honor, the 2025 Lifetime Achievement in the Arts and Humanities Award. This award honors an individual whose work has made a lasting impact on the cultural landscape. Faxon joins an illustrious list of past recipients including:
• Chuck Barris
• Neil Sedaka
• Keith Emerson
• Peter Tork
• Paul Williams
• Jimmy Webb
• Joe Downing
• Larnelle Harris
“Russ Faxon’s work resonates not only here at home but around the world,” said SKYPAC CEO Jeffrey Reed. “It’s a privilege to celebrate his global influence and local legacy.”
The 2025 Janet Bass Smith Memorial Award was presented to Gaines Penn, longtime SKYPAC board attorney, for his outstanding volunteer service.
Penn’s expert legal guidance during pivotal moments in SKYPAC’s history — including the merger with Orchestra Kentucky and periods of substantial growth — has been instrumental in the organization’s continued success.
The 2025 Carol Haskins Wedge Memorial Award was awarded to Katherine and Andy Sikora. Their cumulative philanthropic support to SKYPAC has been significant over the years and has made possible countless performances and educational programs that have touched the lives of thousands, especially children.
“Each of these honorees embodies the spirit of our mission: to enrich the region through artistic excellence, accessibility, and education,” said Reed. “We are grateful for their vision, passion, and enduring support.”
For more information about SKYPAC’s programming, outreach, and opportunities to support the arts, visit www.TheSKYPAC.com.
