Local artists and arts champions honoured at 2025 Mayor’s Arts Awards

In a celebration of artistic excellence, creative expression and leadership, three artists and one cultural organization were the toast of the town at last night’s Mayor’s Arts Awards.

The recipients of the 2025 Mayor’s Arts Awards were announced and honoured at the annual event held at Kingston City Hall, followed by a community reception. Each year, the Mayor’s Arts Awards recognizes artists and arts champions for their outstanding contributions Kingston's arts and culture scene.

“Kingston thrives because of the passion and vision of its artists and cultural leaders, and the Mayor’s Arts Awards are our way of saying thank you for making our city a place where creativity flourishes,” said Mayor Bryan Paterson. “These awards are more than recognition; they are a celebration of the people who empower our arts sector and ensure its growth for generations to come.”

This year’s recipients are:

Creator Award – Jesse MacMillan: As the Technical Director of the Festival of Live Digital Arts, the Arts Stage Technician at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, a member of PeerLess Productions, and a versatile performer in theatre and film, Jesse has made a profound impact on Kingston’s performing arts sector.

Creator Award – Aaron Forsyth: A visual artist specializing in vibrant murals and custom design work, Aaron (known creatively as EronOne) is a driving force behind Kingston’s vibrant street art culture, working to uplift fellow artists and educate youth, and build connections with local businesses and institutions through collaborations and commissioning projects.

Creator Award – Camille Spencer: As a dancer, choreographer, community builder and educator, Camille is a founding member and now Co-Director of the Ground UP Dance Festival, a collaborator at H’art Centre, a member of Movement Market Collective, and a teacher at the Kingston School of Dance.

Arts Champion Award - Le Centre culturel Frontenac: Kingston's premier Francophone cultural hub, dedicated to celebrating and promoting Francophone arts and culture through theatre, music, dance and more. Through quality programming and creative leadership, le Centre culturel Frontenac promotes a visible, vibrant, and active Francophone community in Kingston and beyond.

Congratulations and félicitations to the 2025 Mayor’s Arts Awards recipients!