Dallas Honors Arts Leaders Custard and Enloe with Linz Award

URGENT UPDATE: Dallas pays tribute to arts champions Linda Custard and Bess Enloe as they receive the prestigious Linz Award for their unwavering dedication to the arts. The dynamic duo was honored on October 15, 2023, in a ceremony that resonated deeply with attendees, led by Dallas Theater Center executive director Kevin Moriarty.

The award highlights the critical role of the arts in fostering community and connection, especially in today’s polarized landscape. As divisions in society grow deeper, the power of art to unite and heal has never been more crucial. During his heartfelt speech, Moriarty emphasized that like the ancient Greeks, who placed theater at the heart of civic life, contemporary society must recognize the arts as essential—not just ornamental.

Moriarty pointed out that across the United States, loneliness and isolation have emerged as public health crises. He stressed that sharing stories and creating art together can bridge these divides and promote understanding. This belief is gaining traction, as seen in Massachusetts, where a groundbreaking social prescribing initiative allows doctors to prescribe arts participation to combat loneliness and improve mental health. Early results show that 56% of patients experienced reduced anxiety and depression, while 74% reported decreased loneliness.

The implications for public health are staggering, with an estimated $300 million saved due to lower hospital admissions and fewer avoidable deaths. These findings reinforce the notion that art is not merely a luxury; it is a vital component of life and health.

As Dallas celebrates Custard and Enloe’s contributions, Moriarty calls for action. He urges the community to sustain the arts institutions they have strengthened and to invest in the infrastructure that ensures artistic excellence. This includes fair compensation for artists, inclusive educational opportunities, and long-term planning for cultural leadership.

Moriarty’s message resonates: supporting the arts is a civic responsibility, not an act of charity. He encourages everyone to engage with the arts actively—whether by commissioning new works or ensuring that every voice is heard in discussions about health and education.

As Dallas moves forward, let us honor Custard and Enloe’s legacy by committing to the transformative power of art. Their work has established Dallas not just as a center of business but as a vibrant hub of creativity and imagination.

The call to action is clear: let’s ensure that the arts remain a birthright for every citizen in our democracy. As we celebrate these leaders, we must also embrace the ongoing work of culture that turns neighbors into engaged citizens. This is the essence of a community that aspires to be both great and good.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how the arts can shape a better future for Dallas and beyond.