Nominees announced for new Sky Arts Hero Award

September 3, 2024 — Sky has today announced the nominees for its Arts Hero Award, a first-of-its-kind category for the new Sky Arts Awards. The ceremony, taking place on 17th September at The Roundhouse, will celebrate the diverse and vibrant landscape of British and Irish arts and culture, rewarding excellence across all arts disciplines. The event, which will air on Sky Arts and Freeview, will be a showcase of the immense talent and dedication that fuel the arts industry – including the behind-the-scenes heroes whose efforts are integral to the success of the arts and culture scene.

Sky Arts invited the arts community to nominate their unsung heroes earlier this summer. Following an overwhelming response, they can now reveal the five nominees for the Arts Hero Award. From a singer who supports children on life support to an art technician who mentors young curators, these extraordinary individuals were selected by the judging panel for their unwavering dedication and profound impact on the arts, often working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of countless productions, exhibitions and performances.

Meet the nominees for the Arts Hero Award:

Graham Johnson, Producer working with Tobacco Factory Theatres in Bristol, who is known for developing emerging producers and advocating for wellbeing in the arts industry. Through the Blueprint training and mentorship, Graham has provided essential support to emerging artists, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Graham’s dedication to creating a kinder, more accessible arts environment has had a lasting impact on those they mentor, making them a crucial figure in supporting new talent and promoting mental health in the arts.

Graham said: “To have my efforts recognised in such a public and meaningful way is incredibly moving. This nomination is not just a personal achievement, it’s a reminder that the work I’m passionate about genuinely matters – supporting the next generation of producers and making the arts more inclusive and accessible. It fuels my commitment to continue striving for a more compassionate and supportive arts community, where the impact of our work resonates beyond the immediate projects and creates lasting change. The arts hold a unique power to make people feel seen, understood and valued.”

Linda Hogg, Head of Customer Services and Front of House at Capital Theatres in Edinburgh, has dedicated 30 years to enhancing the Scottish arts sector. Known for her exceptional work ethic and kindness, Linda has created a welcoming atmosphere at Capital Theatres, earning high praise from audiences and colleagues alike. Her contributions extend beyond the theatre, including volunteer work during COVID and personal acts of kindness. Linda’s leadership and attention to detail have left a lasting mark on Edinburgh’s cultural scene.

Linda said: “When I heard about the nomination, I was genuinely touched. Every day in this role is a mix of challenges and rewards, and to have that dedication acknowledged is heartwarming. It’s not just about me, though – it’s about the entire team that makes the magic happen. This nomination feels like a win for all of us.”

Mikei Hall, Senior Art Handling Technician at the Tate Britain in London, has spent over 30 years at the gallery, where he has become a beloved and highly respected figure. Mikei has worked on numerous exhibitions, including more Turner Prize exhibitions than any other technician, and is celebrated within the artistic and curatorial community as someone who can provide advice and support in any situation. Mikei is also incredibly passionate and vocal about supporting the new generation of artists and curators and puts particular energy into the mentorship of young people of colour.

Mikei commented: “To me, this nomination represents not just my work, but the efforts of many behind the scenes who often go unrecognised. It’s about acknowledging the value of every role in the arts, from the technicians to the volunteers. My journey, coming from a humble background and facing barriers in the arts, now feels like it might inspire others who see that their contributions matter. This award is a step towards breaking down barriers and showing that everyone, regardless of their background, can make a meaningful impact in the arts.”

Sally Spencer, who is a singer with Ex Cathedra, and a children’s leukaemia nurse at Birmingham Children’s Hospital for nearly 25 years. She was the driving force behind Ex Cathedra’s Singing Medicine project, which she continues to co-lead 20 years later. The project brings singing for wellbeing to children in hospital, including those who are extremely vulnerable in protective isolation. During the pandemic, Sally and the Singing Medicine team created thousands of personalised music videos for children when in-person visits were not possible. Sally brings together her extensive nursing experience with her passion for music to her leadership and compassionate support of the Singing Medicine team enabling them to work in what can be distressing situations, such as delivering singing sessions at end-of-life care. Sally was integral in adapting Singing Medicine to support adults affected by stroke and dementia, making a significant impact in these areas as well.

Sally shared her reaction to being nominated: “I’m truly honoured, but this recognition really belongs to the whole Ex Cathedra Singing Medicine team. Every week, we go into the hospital to bring music and singing-play to children, responding and adapting to their needs – whether it’s soothing a newborn with lullabies or engaging a teenager in a musical game. Singing medicine allows me to offer joy, relief and distraction to the children and their families. Our songs and singing-play aim to give them a little bit of control where often they have none. This nomination means a lot to me because it acknowledges the importance of what we do. It’s not just nice, it’s necessary.”

Yvonne O’Donovan, Administrator at Creu Cymru in Wales, has been the backbone of the organisation for over 22 years, supporting the performing arts across the country. As the longest-serving employee, she has seen the organisation grow from 33 to over 70 venue members. Yvonne’s tireless work behind the scenes has enabled tours, training and networking that have strengthened the arts sector in Wales. Her legacy will be a resilient arts community that benefits from the foundation she has helped build.

Yvonne said “I’m not one for the spotlight, so this recognition is incredibly humbling. My role is varied – balancing budgets, booking tours, attending performances and managing our website. Every day brings something new, and I love the variety, but it’s the moments of genuine connection with our community that are the most rewarding. The arts are a lifeline, not just for the economy, but for our wellbeing.”

Phil Edgar-Jones, Director of Sky Arts, commented on the importance of the Arts Hero Award: “We were incredibly moved by the nominations we received. Each story was a powerful reminder of the dedication, passion and often unseen work that goes into making our arts sector thrive. Selecting just five nominees was an immensely difficult task. Everyone put forward has made such a meaningful contribution. The Sky Arts Awards is our opportunity to celebrate these remarkable unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, making our cultural experiences possible.”

The announcement follows recent findings that 84% of the UK population are unaware that the arts sector employs around 3.5 million people across hundreds of roles. The Arts Hero Award not only celebrates these essential workers but also highlights the vital roles they play within the arts ecosystem.

Building on the legacy of the South Bank Sky Arts Awards, the Sky Arts Awards is the only event in the world that recognises the full spectrum of artistic genres, including classical music, comedy, dance, film, literature, poetry, opera, popular music, television, theatre and visual art.

The winning Arts Hero will be revealed at the Sky Arts Awards, airing 17 September at 9pm on Sky Arts.