Omi International Arts Center (Omi) announced today the five artists who received the 2015 Francis J. Greenburger Award, a 12,500 USD prize that aims to honor established artists whose extraordinary merit within the art world has not been fully recognized by the public. Francis J. Greenburger, founder of Omi and notable New York City real estate developer, invited an acclaimed artist, art historian, museum professional, gallerist, and collector to each select one recipient whom they believe to fulfill the mission of the award. The awards, totaling 62,500 USD, were presented in New York City on April 21, 2015 during a ceremony at the New Museum from 6 to 8pm.
 
The distinguished group of artists includes Charles Juhász-Alvarado, Steve Wolfe, Alison Knowles, Suchan Kinoshita, and Malcolm Morley. Ursula von Rydingsvard, Roland J. Augustine, Claire Bishop, Oliver Kruse, and Andy and Christine Hall, respectively selected these notable artists.
 
“Omi International Arts Center constantly strives to foster an environment of creative exploration and professional opportunity. Each cycle, this ceremony is a chance for incredible artists to gain increased exposure for their work,” said Francis J. Greenburger, Founder of Omi International Arts Center and Chairman of Time Equities Inc. “It’s our honor to award these individuals, whom we believe are shaping the art world of tomorrow, with a platform to engage with an art-focused audience and earn increased recognition for their contributions.”

Mr. Greenburger founded the award in 1986 after a conversation he had with his friends, André Emmerich and Clement Greenburg, during which André said, “The best and brightest artist of each generation are known, but not to everyone. Ask the inner circle and they can tell you.” This statement is the inspiration and founding principle of the Francis J. Greenburger Awards.
 
Since its inception in 1986, Omi International Arts Center has awarded 50 artists the prestigious award, including this year’s five impressive winners. 

About Omi International Arts Center
Omi International Arts Center is a not-for-profit arts organization with residency programs for international visual artists, writers, musicians and dancers. The 300-acre campus is also the site for The Fields Sculpture Park, a public exhibition space with nearly 80 contemporary sculptures; Architecture Omi, exploring the intersection of architecture, art and landscape; and Education Omi, an arts education programs for children.

Contact
Nikki Buccina, Quinn: T +1 212 868 1900, ext. 387 / nbuccina@quinn.pr
Cassandra Small, Quinn: T +1 212 868 1900 ext. 393 / csmall@quinn.pr