Red Gate Social Practice Award

In Honor of Paul Evensen

In 2025, Red Gate established an inaugural award to recognize Red Gate artists whose practices demonstrate sustained community engagement and ethical inquiry beyond traditional art spaces.

The award is named in honor of Paul Evensen, a deeply respected and valued member of Wydown United Church and a civic leader committed to justice-centered systems and community care. Paul Evensen passed away in 2021.

2025 Award Recipients

Ben Bradshaw

For the development of Art Crush, which widens networks among artists and fosters real-world connection, mutual support, and collaboration, an essential form of social practice within the arts ecosystem.

@spacetime.mtn

Dail Chambers

For her development of Coahoma Orchards, where her artistic practice intersects with food justice, land stewardship, and community resilience—modeling how creative labor can support systems of care and long-term sustainability.

@dailchambers

Stan Chisholm /18andcounting

For creating an artist residency with the SLU Prison Education Program, supporting learning, dignity, and creative agency within carceral systems.

@18andcounting

Jordan Geiger

For his work with BJC Hospice, centering dignity, compassion, and presence for individuals and families during deeply human moments.

@jordangeigerart

Mad Green

For their development of Queer Fight Club, a community-based practice focused on connection, care, and collective resilience.

@madgreen.art

Sukanya Mani

For her long-term, relationship-based work with immigrant communities, centered on listening, cultural knowledge, and trust-building.

@manakins_art

Sarah Paulsen

For work that weaves honest reflection on motherhood and self-acceptance with sustained engagement around white privilege and accountability.

@sarahpaulsen77

Brock Seals

For the development of Art, Mimosas, and Pancakes, a recurring, hospitality-based platform that builds conversation, nourishment, and mutual support—demonstrating how social practice can be grounded in generosity and shared experience.

@sealsbrock

Martha Valenta

For advancing neurodivergence acceptance through participatory and educational frameworks that expand visibility, understanding, and advocacy.

@martha.valenta