Paducah has recognized art as one of its greatest resources for education, engagement and community spirit.
The diversity of artists who are part of Paducah’s creative cultural community have enriched the city and broadened its international horizons through events like “Meet the Artists Day,” the American Quilt Society’s Quilt Week or the variety of groups performing at Maiden Alley Cinema. The Paducah Convention and Visitors Bureau also was responsible for Paducah’s designation in 2013 as a Creative City of Craft and Folk Art by the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The distinction makes Paducah one of only seven Creative Cities of Craft and Folk Art worldwide and the second in the United States, including Santa Fe, New Mexico. One other American city, Iowa City, is designated a UNESCO Creative City for Literature.
http://www.lanereport.com/51234/2015/07/2015-governors-awards-in-the-arts-recipients-announced/