The Ontario Arts Foundation Artist Educator Award is given to an Ontario resident who exemplifies excellence in arts education, demonstrates a unique approach to their arts education practice, creates meaningful learning experiences for young people, inspires connections to the arts beyond the classroom and continues to maintain an active arts practice.  The Ontario Arts Foundation established and manages the endowment that funds the Artist Educator Award.

Selection Process
The Ontario Arts Council is responsible for the selection process. The award recipient is selected through the Ontario Arts Council’s peer assessment process from the applicants to the Artists in Communities and Schools Projects program.

Award:  $15,000

Current Recipient
2025     Charles Hong

Past Recipients
2024     Zoey Roy
2023     Nathanael Larochette
2022     Mike Cope
2021     Elizabeth Doxtater
2020     Ruben Esguerra
2019     Zvondai Muchenje
2018     Chuck Commanda
2017     Yaovi Hoyi (YAO) 
2016     Jamaal Rogers 
2015     Lorrie Gallant

News Releases
Charles Hong Honoured with Ontario Arts Foundation Artist Educator Award  September 22, 2025