Ten artists were honored for their involvement in the arts at the Marquette Arts and Culture Center's 18th annual Art Awards Friday night.
It was a full house to honor those that have contributed to Marquette's arts and culture scene over the past year, including volunteers, writers, and traditional artists. The awards, and the strong community support, highlight the importance art has in the Marquette area.
"I think the community embraces art, it's important to them, the value it, and we're lucky to live here for that," Marquette Arts and Culture Center director Tiina Harris said.
Found-object artist Ritch Branstrom, who lives in Rapid River, won the 2014 Visual Artist Award. He uses all sorts of objects donated to him by his family and friends to create new art.
"Usually a piece starts when I find something that it reminds me of something, and I will combine other elements and create a whole form," Branstrom said.
The winners were nominated by community members, and a judging panel of past award winners selected the honorees.
More information on Branstrom's found-object art can be found here.