The National Medal of Arts is the most prestigious award bestowed by the U.S. government to artists and allies of the arts. Since its inception in 1984, the National Medal of Arts program has recognized many notable Americans for their work producing and creating art. In accordance with the multifaceted nature of the American people, the medal is awarded to a variety of individuals, encompassing a wide spectrum of artistic disciplines—unlike other arts awards, the National Medal of Arts is not limited to one particular field of art.

In 1983 the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities arranged a celebratory luncheon at the White House in which President Regan awarded the following artists and patrons for their phenomenal contributions to the arts. This event was the catalyst that prompted the enactment of what we now know as the National Medal of the Arts program.

Every year following May 30, 1984, when President Regan signed the legislation approving the program, presidents have awarded as many as 12 medals to “individuals or groups who in the President’s judgment are deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support, and availability of the arts in the United States.” The selection process begins with the NEA's National Council on the Arts (NCA) accepting nominations from the public, from which the council decides on a list to present to the president. From this list of recommendations, the White House decides on the final selection for the year’s recipients.

The National Medal of Arts itself, designed by world-renowned sculptor Robert Graham, is a piece of art. A committee of the NCA chose his design from amongst 31 other submissions.

In an age where the value of art is often unappreciated, the National Medal of Arts program seeks to honor those who share a vision of creativity and actively work toward uplifting a variety of art forms, whether in the fine arts or popular culture. Throughout the years this program has celebrated the contributions of incredible persons and organizations and continues the legacy of art appreciation.