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This year, some of the most celebrated figures in the entertainment industry will be recognized by the White House. The administration of President Joe Biden announced on Monday the recipients of the National Medals of Arts and Humanities for 2022 and 2023, which will include iconic artists such as Missy Elliott, Queen Latifah, Steven Spielberg, and the late Selena Quintanilla.
Elliott, Latifah, and Spielberg lead a distinguished group receiving the National Medal of Arts. Other honorees in this category include Broadway star Idina Menzel, musician Leonardo “Flaco” Jiménez, and ukulele artist Herb Ohta, Jr. Additionally, actress Eva Longoria and esteemed filmmakers Ken Burns and Spike Lee will also be recognized for their contributions to American culture.
Selena Quintanilla, a beloved figure in music history, is among those receiving the award posthumously, alongside renowned chef Anthony Bourdain and celebrated artist Ruth Asawa, highlighting their enduring impact on their respective fields.
Further recipients of the National Medals include producer Bruce Cohen and photographers Randy Batista and Clyde Butcher, as well as artists Carrie Mae Weems, Alex Katz, and Mark Bradford. Additionally, Jo Carole Lauder of the Museum of Modern Art in New York and mathematician Bruce Sagan will be honored.
According to the White House, the National Medal of Arts is the most prestigious accolade bestowed by the U.S. government on those in the arts. It recognizes individuals and organizations whose work has not only enriched the American artistic landscape but also inspired others through their dedication and achievements.
On the other hand, the National Humanities Medal acknowledges contributions that enhance the public’s understanding of the humanities, fostering engagement with diverse fields such as history, literature, and philosophy.
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Among the honorees recognized for their contributions to the humanities are esteemed educators like Robin Harris, Robert Martin, and Ruth J. Simmons, as well as notable figures such as poet Juan Felipe Herrera, filmmaker Dawn Porter, and anthropologist Rosita Worl.
The previous year’s cohort included influential personalities such as Mindy Kaling, Gladys Knight, and Bruce Springsteen, underlining the breadth of talent the National Medal of Arts represents. This distinction has historically been awarded to musicians like Ricky Skaggs, Toby Keith, Linda Ronstadt, and Smokey Robinson, emphasizing its significance within the American arts landscape.
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www.rollingstone.com