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Kellie Kirksey: Fourth Prize in the Women of Ohio 2025 Poetry Award with ‘I Wish’
The poem by Kelly Kirksey honors two remarkable Ohio figures: Toni Morrison and Aminah Robinson. Morrison, a Nobel-winning novelist, transformed literary storytelling, while Robinson’s impactful art reflects her deep roots in community and ancestral legacy. Both women continue to inspire through their creative expressions and cultural narratives, emphasizing the healing power of art.
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McKenzie Gilbert: Third Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Art Award with ‘Is the grass greener?’
McKenzie Gilbert created a striking artwork for the Women of Ohio project, addressing the unique pressures faced by women educators. Her piece honors the sacrifices teachers make while highlighting the stresses unseen by the public. Born in 1996, Gilbert holds a BA in Arts Education and has an upcoming exhibition in 2026. Find out more…
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Emily Patterson: Third Prize in the Women of Ohio 2025 Poetry Award with ‘Land : Water : Memory’
Maya Lin, an Ohio-born artist and architect, is known for her impactful work that intertwines art, architecture, and environmental activism. Recognized for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, she creates engaging earthworks like A Fold in the Field. Emily Patterson’s poem ‘Land : Water : Memory’ celebrates Lin’s legacy and connection to Ohio’s indigenous landscapes.
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A Note of Thanks to Columbus Greater Arts Council
The funding period from Columbus Greater Arts Council is concluding, enabling the project. A letter of gratitude is extended to Mayor Andrew Ginther, the Columbus City Council, and the Franklin County Commissioners, acknowledging their support.
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Rob W. Jones: Second Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Art Award with ‘Thee Flower Lady of Mt. Vernon Avenue (study of Edna Bryce)’
We present here Rob W. Jones’s portrait of Edna L. Bryce, a notable community figure in Columbus. Rob celebrates her legacy as a businesswoman and activist. Originally from Fairhope, Alabama, Bryce founded Bryce Florist and advocated for her community, earning the nickname “The Flower Lady.” The painting reflects her nurturing spirit and impactful contributions.
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Darren C. Demaree: Second Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Poetry Award with ‘A Poem for the Aunts and Grandmothers on Livingstone Avenue’
Darren Demaree’s poem honors the matriarchal women of Ohio’s Livingston Avenue, who strongly support their community. Through his experiences at the Columbus Metropolitan Library, he learned about genuine care and community connection. Demaree argues that these women’s influence should be recognized and celebrated, emphasizing that real change stems from love and attention.
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Marcus Jackson: First Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Art Award for Art with “Livestream”
We present her the winning photograph “Live Stream” which captures the spirit of a 2020 Women’s Day demonstration in Columbus, Ohio, showcasing unity among feminine-presenting individuals. Its composition, highlighting diverse reactions and a bold front figure symbolizes women’s collective strength and purpose. Photographer and poet Marcus Jackson emphasizes the image’s dramatic, mythic quality while honoring…
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Esther Sadoff: First Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Poetry Award for a Poem on Jacqueline Woodson
Read the winning poem from our open call: Esther Sadoff’s ‘On Leaving and Coming’ dedicated to the Ohio born writer Jacqueline Woodson. Jacqueline Woodson is an Ohio born writer of books for adults, children, and adolescents. She is best known for her National Book Award-Winning memoir Brown Girl Dreaming.
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Chosen Poets & Artists
It was a joy to gather in the heart of Columbus for an hour of poetry and community. The event marked the culmination of months of collaboration and creativity, made possible by the generous support of GCAC and the vision behind Women of Ohio. Hear the final results of our call for poems and artworks.
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Who will the winners be? Find out at Columbus Book Festival on July 12th!
The Women of Ohio Prize has concluded judging, celebrating impactful entries in poetry and visual art. Winners and commended artists and poets have been selected, with final placements revealed at the Columbus Book Festival on July 12th. Congratulations to all participants for their extraordinary contributions honoring inspiring women.
Women of Ohio
Celebrating the Achievements of Women from the City of Columbus and the State of Ohio
Women of Ohio 