Emerald's Founder, Dr Keith Howard, receives Medal for Arts Philanthropy from the Prince of Wales

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Arts & Business announces recipients of The Prince of Wales Medal for Arts Philanthropy

On November 24th 2009 HRH The Prince of Wales presented his five Medals for Arts Philanthropy. This medal celebrates individuals who support the arts and recognises the contribution of the most inspiring cultural philanthropists in the UK.

Colin Tweedy, Chief Executive of Arts & Business, comments: “In these difficult times, it is vital to honour the remarkable commitment of individuals in fighting our cultural corner and bringing in better resources to the arts.

“These honourees embody what we collectively need at this time. They are fearless in persuading others to support the arts. They have the passion, the commitment and the ideas to enable the arts to flourish.

“Arts & Business is honoured to have been able to create this Medal for our President, The Prince of Wales. These honourees are an inspiration to us all. We congratulate all the recipients on receiving their prestigious and well-deserved medals for arts philanthropy this year.”

This year’s honourees are:

Michael and Dorothy Hintze
Dr Keith Howard.
Donald MacDonald CBE and Louise MacDonald.
Mrs Mary Weston CBE.
Sir John Zochonis.

Welcoming the awards, Culture Secretary Ben Bradshaw said: “The arts in this country continue to flourish thanks to a combination of public support and the profound generosity of private donors. The five honourees being recognised today epitomise the philanthropic spirit. I congratulate them and hope others will be encouraged to follow their lead. I would also thank the Prince of Wales for his unstinting support for our arts and heritage and his initiative in establishing this Medal."

Conservative Shadow Culture Minister Ed Vaizey MP said: "The Prince of Wales philanthropy medal is a fantastic innovation. It celebrates and recognises people who make significant contributions to our cultural life. It is a special and unique award that goes to people whose generosity and philanthropy enrich the lives of millions.”

Don Foster, the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Culture, Media and Sport, said: "It is important to recognise the significant role individuals play in helping cultural organisations flourish. The Prince of Wales Medal for Arts Philanthropy reminds us that individuals are a vital part of the UK’s successful arts funding ecology. Cultural philanthropy is a force for good and alongside Arts & Business we need to do more to recognise and encourage all forms of giving to the arts.”

Scottish Culture Minister Michael Russell MSP said: "It is important to recognise the role of private individuals in advocating for and supporting the arts. The Prince of Wales medal does just this. And while none of the individuals being honoured today expects such public thanks for their efforts, I think it is vital that we do so, on behalf of the many people who benefit from their work.”

On receiving their medals, Dorothy and Michael Hintze commented: “We are delighted to accept this incredible and unexpected honour. Giving is both a duty and a privilege. Both of us believe passionately in the need for private patronage of the arts for present and future generations to understand and enjoy our shared cultural heritage. This is especially true in the current difficult economic climate when government and private charitable contributions are under pressure. The recognition provided by this award and His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales is an inspiration to us all. “

Dr Keith Howard said: "Life without the Arts would be arid indeed, and I am privileged to be in a position whereby I can influence the development of community awareness and interest in the Arts, particularly among the young.

"Motivation" and "Means" are the prime "keywords" relating to support for worthy causes. As far as the Arts are concerned (particularly the Performing Arts) I have had the former in abundance since childhood, and the latter has evolved over the years. My reaction to the award of the Prince of Wales Medal for Arts Philanthropy is summed up as "humility and pride."

Donald MacDonald CBE said: “My love of music began at 11 when I started playing the fiddle and it has never waned, due to my involvement with the wonderful organisations we assist. Actively supporting them, both financially and with keen advocacy, rewards Louise and me with great personal enjoyment and also the satisfaction of making something happen that might otherwise not have. While not seeking personal recognition, this medal is nevertheless a great honour for us and those we support.”

Mrs Mary Weston CBE commented: “I feel greatly honoured by this Medal which I am delighted to accept. My enjoyment of the arts has continued to grow and takes me on a wonderful learning journey. The theatre and the arts are amongst my greatest pleasures. One of the great joys and privileges of my involvement has been the expert input that so many wonderful people have shared with me.”

Sir John Zochonis said: “Although not artistically gifted, I have always enjoyed literature and visual arts. I am convinced that the arts help to create a more complete personality and that it is essential for the young to explore as many artistic avenues as possible, so that they may discover a lasting enrichment to their lives.

“I feel enormously honoured to receive this totally unexpected award and am sure that as the work of Arts & Business becomes even better known support will increase.”

The five honourees were chosen after an extensive decision making process. The Prince of Wales’ Group drew up a short list of twenty philanthropists which went forward to a final judging panel of artists, who chose the first five honourees. The final panel included Ronald Harwood (writer for stage and screen), Dame Monica Mason (Director of The Royal Ballet) and Christopher Le Brun (artist). The medal was first presented in 2008.

News Source : Emerald's Founder, Dr Keith Howard, receives Medal for Arts Philanthropy from the Prince of Wales