Dallas Honors Arts Leaders Custard and Enloe with Linz Award

UPDATE: Dallas celebrates arts leaders Linda Custard and Bess Enloe for their lifelong dedication to the arts with the prestigious Linz Award. The award was presented during a ceremony at the Dallas Theater Center in October 2023, where executive director Kevin Moriarty delivered a speech that resonated deeply with attendees.

Custard and Enloe have been instrumental in transforming Dallas into a vibrant hub for creativity and connection. Their contributions reflect a broader understanding of the arts as essential to civic life, especially during these polarized times when loneliness and isolation are rampant.

In his speech, Moriarty emphasized the historical importance of theater, likening it to the ancient Greeks who used drama as a tool for civic engagement. He stated, “The arts cultivate empathy — that rare civic habit that allows us to relate to and understand each other, even if we disagree.” He highlighted that now, more than ever, this understanding is crucial.

The urgent need for arts engagement is underscored by new data from Massachusetts, where a groundbreaking initiative allows doctors to prescribe arts participation for mental health benefits. The results are striking: 56% of participants reported a decrease in anxiety and depression, while 74% noted reduced feelings of loneliness. This initiative has led to an estimated savings of nearly $300 million in healthcare costs due to fewer hospital visits.

Moriarty’s words served as a call to action: “Supporting the arts is not charity – it’s civic responsibility.” He urged Dallas residents to not only acknowledge the contributions of leaders like Custard and Enloe but to actively participate in the ongoing work of culture. He encouraged the community to invite the next generation into the arts and to ensure that every citizen has access to creative opportunities.

The celebration of Custard and Enloe is not merely about honoring their achievements; it is a reminder of the vital role the arts play in fostering community and understanding. As Dallas moves forward, the challenge lies in maintaining the momentum of their legacy and ensuring that the arts remain a priority.

As the city reflects on this recognition, it becomes clear that the arts are not just an embellishment of life but rather a foundation for a thriving democracy. The next steps involve not just gratitude but action—funding institutions, nurturing artists, and creating spaces where all voices can be heard.

Dallas now stands at a pivotal moment, where the collective effort to engage with the arts can lead to meaningful change. This ongoing commitment is essential for building a community that is not only great but also good.

As the achievements of Linda Custard and Bess Enloe are celebrated, let their legacy inspire a renewed focus on the arts — a movement that has the power to heal, connect, and transform lives throughout Dallas.