Awards are given in the following categories:

ARTS ADMINISTRATOR
Individual who has shown long-term visionary leadership of an arts organization.

ARTS EDUCATION
Individual or organization that has made significant contributions through leadership and creativity to advance arts education in Ohio's schools and community organizations.

ARTS PATRON
Individual or family foundations that, over time, sustained and enhanced the arts in their community through contributions of time, effort or financial resources.

BUSINESS SUPPORT OF THE ARTS
Private business, government or media that has, over time, provided extraordinary support to the arts nationally, regionally or statewide through a contribution of personnel, financial or other resources. Non-profit organizations are not eligible.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND PARTICIPATION
Individual or organization that works to create or strengthen interactive arts participation among diverse community members while increasing public awareness about the role of the arts in community life.

INDIVIDUAL ARTIST
Ohio artist whose work has made a significant impact on his or her discipline nationally, regionally or statewide.

IRMA LAZARUS AWARD
Since 1994, the Irma Lazarus award honors the memory of Irma Lazarus, who made countless contributions as an arts patron, advocate or leader in the development of state funding for the arts in Ohio. It goes to individuals or organizations who have helped shape public support for the arts through their work as advocates and have brought statewide, national and international recognition to Ohio through sustained dedication to artistic excellence.
Nominations are not accepted for this category. The Irma Lazarus Award is presented at the discretion of the Ohio Arts Council board.