photo by: Contributed

2025 Phoenix Awards by local artist C. Bryan Young.

A blacksmith, a drag performer and an organizer of Art in the Park are among the City of Lawrence’s 2025 Phoenix Awards honorees.

The Phoenix Awards are given out every two years to recognize people who make an impact on Lawrence’s arts scene. They’re nominated by members of the public and selected by the Lawrence Cultural Arts Commission, which received 13 nominations this year and selected six honorees, according to a news release from the city.

Here’s the list of winners:

• Rachael Lackey, an advocate for Indigenous artists and makers.

• Walt Hull, a blacksmith. His website says he creates both metal sculptures and iron work for architectural projects.

• Jen Unekis, a painter who has played a major role in coordinating the annual Art in the Park show.

• Mark Cowardin, a sculptor and educator. His website shows a variety of his sculptures that use wood, metal, ceramics and lighting elements.

• Brandon Eisman, also known as Deja Brooks, a drag performer, LGBTQ advocate and past winner of Miss Gay Kansas United States.

• Nick Carswell, a musician and leader of the Lawrence Music Alliance.

An awards ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. on Dec. 14 at the Lied Center, 1600 Stewart Drive, in partnership with the Winter Inclusive Market. The ceremony is free and open to everyone. Each winner will receive a Phoenix Award sculpture created by local artist C. Bryan Young.