DOVER — The Biggs Museum of American Art, in partnership with the Delaware Division of the Arts, will premiere the exhibition, “Award Winners XXIII,” showcasing the talents of 17 artists who have been named the 2023 Individual Artist Fellows, starting Thursday. This exhibition is curated and hosted by the Biggs.

This is the 23rd year that the museum has held an exhibition featuring the artwork of the division’s fellows. “Award Winners XXIII” will provide a unique opportunity for the public to engage with and appreciate the work of these accomplished artists.

The division’s Individual Artist Fellowship program recognizes outstanding artists in various artistic disciplines, including choreography, folk art, jazz, literature, media arts, music, and visual arts. A rigorous selection process was undertaken, where the artists’ work samples were reviewed by out-of-state arts professionals who considered both the demonstrated creativity and skill in their respective art forms.

In 2023, the division received a number of work samples from 118 Delaware choreographers, composers, musicians, writers, and folk, media, and visual artists. Following an anonymous review process, 17 el artists were awarded fellowships, representing the categories of two Masters, seven Established, and eight Emerging artists.

These fellows reside throughout Delaware, from the communities of Bridgeville, Claymont, Felton, Harrington, Lewes, New Castle, Newark, Smyrna, Wilmington and Wyoming.

Artist profiles for the 2023 Individual Artist Fellowship cohort can be found at arts.delaware.gov/iafrecipients/2023_iafs.

“Supporting individual artists is vital for a thriving arts ecosystem,” says Jessica Ball, director of the Delaware Division of the Arts.

“These artists are the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and cultural expression. By investing in their work, we not only contribute to the growth and vitality of the arts community but also nurture the unique perspectives and voices that enrich our society.”

“Individual artists play a crucial role in inspiring new ideas,” said deputy director Kristin Pleasanton.

“Through their work, they invite us to explore different perspectives, engage in meaningful dialogue, and reflect on the world around us. By attending these three exhibitions, the public can show their support for these remarkable artists and acknowledge the importance of their contributions to the artistic landscape of Delaware.”

“Some of these artists are well-known. For others, this is their first museum show,” says Laura Fravel, Sewell C. Biggs Curator of American Art.

“It is exciting to see the range of voices and perspectives in the ‘Award Winners XXIII’ exhibition. The Biggs is dedicated to celebrating and advancing the arts in Delaware and, in honor of our 30th anniversary year, we are offering free admission during the run of this show to encourage greater public engagement with contemporary artists working in our state.”

The exhibit runs through Sept. 24 and will be highlighted by a reception and awards ceremony Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. In addition to being able to see the visual artworks, the reception will include a performance by the musical and literary fellows, who will do readings.

In honor of the Biggs’ 30th anniversary, the museum is offering free admission through the run of this show and has extended its hours to Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Biggs Museum of American Art is at 406 Federal St., Dover. For more information, visit BiggsMuseum.org.