To mark Women’s History Month, Gazelle introduces you to the six remarkable recipients of the 2022 Saint Louis Visionary Awards, who will be honored during a ceremony in April.
The award – one of the most prestigious in the local arts community – recognizes the many contributions of women who work in and support the arts in St. Louis.
Among the honorees is Pam Trapp, who will receive the Major Contributor to the Arts award. Following a career in corporate management, Trapp became involved in many local philanthropic organizations through fundraising and volunteer service – with dedication and enthusiasm she continues to share to this day. Through her leadership roles at the Saint Louis Art Museum, St. Louis Shakespeare Festival and the St. Louis Public Schools Foundation, Trapp is guided by a strong belief in education equity and the power of the arts to bring the community together. Her record of advocating for a better St. Louis region dates back to 1997, when she and her husband, Greg, relocated to her hometown to raise their two sons and be near family.
GAZELLE: Why is it important for you to support the arts in St. Louis?
PAM TRAPP: Growing up in St. Louis, I was exposed to a broad array of arts experiences – as an audience member and a participant, in group settings and as an individual. I learned to appreciate the diversity of artistic talents, the hard work required to excel and the importance of collaboration, while also developing empathy, objectivity and perseverance, along with a lifelong love of the arts.
Those experiences are fundamental to who I am as a person and my strong belief in the arts as a means to not only bring joy to our lives, but find common ground and build community. I want young people today to have the same opportunities. St. Louis will be a better place if everyone has equal access to the arts!
GAZELLE: In addition to monetary contributions, what are other significant ways people can show their support for the arts throughout the St. Louis region?
PAM TRAPP: There are many ways to be an advocate for the arts: Attend performances, events, gallery openings, etc. And if you enjoy what you see/hear/feel/experience, spread the word! Research arts organizations in St. Louis and how they impact the community, then offer to volunteer in any capacity where you have an interest! Educate yourself: Go to museums, attend lectures, read periodicals, follow local artists and organizations on social media. Enthusiastically share what you learn with others! Encourage public support for the arts and arts education in the schools, write your legislators and local officials about issues and opportunities!
GAZELLE: What does this award mean to you?
PAM TRAPP: The Visionary Awards not only promote women in the arts, but also raise awareness of the critical ecosystem that makes St. Louis such a vibrant arts community. I am inspired by the talented, dedicated and passionate women recognized each year. It’s an incredible honor to be included in the Class of 2022, joining the legacy of past recipients to sustain and grow our culture of creativity and support of art for all.
In addition to Trapp, this year’s Visionary Awards recipients are: Hassie Davis (Outstanding Teaching Artist), Andrea Hughes (Community Impact Artist), Dianne Isbell (Outstanding Working Artist), Mee Jey (Emerging Artist) and Emily Rau Pulitzer (Lifetime Achievement).
An awards ceremony and program, followed by a reception, begins at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 25, at the Sun Theatre in Grand Center. Cheree Berry and Dr. Eva Frazer are the co-hosts for the evening.
For tickets and additional information, visit the Saint Louis Visionary Awards website.
