In 2009, the Cortland Arts Connect established the Lifetime Achievement Award for a Visual Artist. In 2021 an award for Lifetime Achievement Award for Music was added. Selected by a committee of peers, the award recognizes and honors outstanding artists and musicians for their contribution to the cultural fabric of our community. 

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Each year, the committee appoints local artists and musicians to form the selection committee for the award. As a component of the award, the Cortland Arts Connect purchases a piece of artwork created by the recipient. The intent of this annual Purchase Award is to build a permanent visual record of an important aspect of our artistic heritage. Cortland Arts Connect periodically displays this ever-growing collection in exhibits around the community.  Donations toward the annual Purchase Award are gratefully accepted.