Illinois Artist Fellowships are awarded annually to Illinois artists of exceptional talent in recognition of their outstanding work within their field. Finalist Awards are awarded to recognize and encourage additional individuals who demonstrate considerable talent. This year, 38 Illinois artists were awarded $7,000 fellowships, out of a total of 921 applicants. Eleven finalists received $700 awards. Of the 38 Illinois Arts Council Fellows for 2009, seven are Columbia faculty members: Kelli Connell (Photography), Sarah Faust (Photography), Myra Greene (Photography), Jason Lazarus (Photography), Paul Nudd (Art and Design), Michael K. Paxton (Art and Design), and Tony Trigilio (English). Anna Shteynshleyger (Photography) and Marilyn Propp (Art and Design) were among the 11 finalists.

Image: Small Island #1, 2009, by Michael K. Paxton.