Here it is. The list you’ve all been waiting for — the indisputable, definitive list of the best Evansville artists and art created in 2020.

A diverse committee made up of me and only met to score and rank all artists who created pieces in 2020, from paintings to songs and everything in between, to determine what constitutes the best. This list is guaranteed to be more controversial than the updated Rolling Stone Top 500 Albums of All Time list, so I’m sorry if anyone is offended by its creation. Without further ado, here it is.

1. Every local artist who created something in 2020.

Yep, that’s it. That’s the list.

I know, it’s a complete and utter copout, but my heart goes out to all the local artists who created something in this discarded-face-mask-in-the-Lawndale-Commons-parking-lot of a year. To have faced the stress and trauma of a pandemic, to have lived in a time that so painfully cracked the facade hiding this country’s social issues and inequality, and to have taken that and created something — anything — is commendable.

Even those who didn’t create this year, whether it be because you couldn’t muster the physical or emotional energy to create, or for whatever reason, you still are great and are appreciated.

The Arts Council wasn’t able to do everything we planned to do this year. There weren’t as many exhibits as we planned. There were no concerts on the roof. We couldn’t bring people together for a shared art experience. But we still shared the work of more than 150 artists through our gallery and virtual exhibits. Next year, we’ll have more opportunities for artists and musicians to have their work experienced by the community.

In a year of grief and social isolation, we all turned to art. Without you, the world would be void of humanity. Thank you for creating in 2020. The Arts Council can’t wait to see what you do in 2021.

Posted Dec. 23, 2020