Winners Selected for 2005 Ohio Heritage Fellowships
New Deadline for 2006 Nominations is July 15, 2005
by Jami Goldstein

Each year, the Ohio Arts Council in partnership with the Ohio Folk Arts Network awards up to three $1,500 Ohio Heritage Fellowships to individuals whose achievements have had a positive impact on the excellence, vitality and public appreciation of folk and traditional arts in Ohio. The deadline for nominations for the 2006 awards is July 15, 2005.

The 2005 Heritage Fellowship Recipients are: Wallace Coleman, Cleveland; Big Joe Duskin, Cincinnati; and Jesse Ponce, Toledo.

Wallace Coleman is a skilled Blues musician who has played with many legends including Robert Lockwood Jr. In 2002, he was the recipient of the Living Blues Award. In 2004, Coleman participated in classroom workshops by invitation of the Roots of American Music (ROAM) Program and has been invited to participate in another ROAM in 2005.

Big Joe Duskin produces music that crosses generations and has a significant influence on young musicians. He learned the style of Blues in a traditional fashion, making him a valuable resource for the history of the genre. Duskin has been recognized locally and internationally for his community contributions. In 2004 Duskin, released his latest album, a celebration of and tribute to his 60-year career.

Jesse Ponce is nationally recognized for playing the bajo sexto. His music provides a true sense of the history of Conjunto which is imbedded in tradition. Ponce’s music is featured at festivals and clubs throughout Ohio. His commitment to the community is evident through his involvement in church services, family ceremonies, holidays and providing music for the inmates at the Lucas County Jail.

The Heritage Fellowships honor Ohio master folk traditional artists who carry forward the folk traditions of their families and communities through practice and teaching. For more information contact the Irene Finck in the Office of Individual Creativity at 614/466-2613, e-mail irene.finck@oac.state.oh.us or visit the OAC website at www.oac.state.oh.us.

The Ohio Arts Council is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally and economically.

[top]