06/10/2026
ICYMI, Oklahoma Cultural Treasure Ed Ruscha was recognized last week with a 2026 Citizen Artist Award by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) and Americans for the Arts during the USCM's annual meeting in Long Beach, CA. The award is given to icons in the arts who use their platforms to uplift and strengthen communities.
The arts shape culture. They shape communities. And they shape the people bold enough to dedicate their lives to them.
Together with the U.S. Conference of Mayors, we are proud to present the 2026 Citizen Artist Awards to four icons who have done exactly that.
→ Chuck D — Hip-Hop Pioneer
→ Snoop Dogg — Entertainment Mogul
→ Ed Ruscha — Visual Trailblazer
→ Danny Trejo — Hollywood Legend
“Snoop Dogg, Ed Ruscha, Danny Trejo, and Chuck D embody what it means to be true citizen artists,” said Erin Harkey, CEO of Americans for the Arts. “Through music, visual art, film, and cultural activism, they demonstrate that creative expression is not just entertainment — it is a powerful force for civic engagement, connection, and social change.”
“Cities are the cultural capitals of our nation, and the arts define the civic identities of our cities. That is why this partnership between the U.S. Conference of Mayors and Americans for the Arts has endured for the last three decades,” said David Holt, outgoing President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and Mayor of Oklahoma City.
Four icons. Four communities. One consistent truth: the arts are essential.
Congratulations to our Citizen Artist Awards recipients! 🎉
