The Prize
Established in 1994 through the will of Lillian Gish, the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize is given annually to an individual who has “made an outstanding contribution to the beauty of the world and to mankind’s enjoyment and understanding of life."
Prize process and committee
Prize recipients are nominated by the arts community and chosen by a distinguished committee of arts leaders for their groundbreaking work in their chosen fields.
The Gish Prize selection committee, a group of five experts that changes every year, has included choreographer Garth Fagan, filmmaker Mira Nair, sculptor Martin Puryear, composer Alvin Singleton, President Emerita of The Museum of Modern Art Agnes Gund, and Senior Advisor for Global Programs at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation and President Emerita of the Asia Society, Vishaka Desai.
Dorothy Gish
Dorothy Gish, born in 1898, was a celebrated actress known for her dynamic presence in both silent and sound films. As the younger sister of Lillian Gish, Dorothy carved out her own niche in the entertainment industry, starring in a variety of films that showcased her versatility and comedic talent. Her performances in films like Orphans of the Storm and The Bright Shawl highlighted her ability to captivate audiences with both drama and humor.
Beyond her film career, Dorothy was a dedicated stage actress, bringing her talents to Broadway and other theatrical productions. Her work on stage further demonstrated her range and commitment to the performing arts, earning her acclaim and respect from peers and audiences alike.
Dorothy Gish's legacy is intertwined with her sister's through the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize, which honors their shared dedication to the arts. This prestigious award continues to celebrate artists who contribute to the beauty and understanding of the world, reflecting Dorothy's enduring impact on the arts community. Through this prize, her spirit and passion for creativity live on, inspiring future generations of artists.
Lillian Gish
Lillian Gish, born in 1893, was a pioneering figure in American cinema, often hailed as "The First Lady of American Cinema." Her illustrious career spanned over 75 years, during which she became renowned for her roles in silent film such as The Birth of a Nation and Broken Blossoms. Gish's performances were instrumental in elevating film to a respected art form, showcasing the medium's potential for profound storytelling and emotional depth. As the first female film director, she cast her sister Dorothy in Remodeling Her Husband (1920).
Beyond her remarkable acting career, Lillian Gish was a passionate advocate for the arts. She tirelessly championed the preservation of cinema's legacy, recognizing the importance of film as a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. Her dedication extended beyond her own work, as she sought to support and inspire emerging artists across various disciplines.
In 1971, Lillian received an honorary Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and Kennedy Center Honors in 1982. The American Film Institute presented her with its Life Achievement Award in 1984. She died in 1993, seven months’ shy of her 100th birthday.
In her will, Lillian Gish established the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize, a testament to her lifelong commitment to the arts. This prestigious award honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the beauty and understanding of the world through their creative endeavors. Through the Gish Prize, Lillian Gish's legacy continues to inspire and support artists, ensuring that her vision for a vibrant and impactful arts community endures.