Lobster Rolls at the Landmarks: The Fine Arts Work Center Takes Over Provincetown
Against sweeping harbor views and a stacked honoree list, the Fine Arts Work Center honored the cultural stewards who continue to shape creative life in Provincetown and beyond.
Article by Sam Falb
via Cultured Magazine
Photo: Cheston Bowerman
The Fine Arts Work Center’s annual Summer Awards brought Provincetown’s creative community together last weekend (just in time for Bear Week), in dedication to those who make artistic practice possible at the “end of the world.” The 2026 celebration honored poet Marie Howe; artist Mira Schor; and architects Bruce Skiles Danzer, David Croteau, Keith LeBlanc, and Matthew Cole. It also extended a Lifetime Service Award to architect Michael Prodanou.
The Occasion: The Fine Arts Work Center’s 2026 Summer Awards Celebration weekend, an annual fundraiser supporting the organization’s artist and writer residency programs, as well as the organization’s commitment to aiding creative freedom for its community. “What’s most important tonight is all of you—the sense of community
gathered here is so inspiring, and I am so grateful to see your commitment to The Fine Arts Work Center continue to grow,” artist and FAWC Board President Lynne Kortenhaus said in an address to guests.
The Locale: The celebration unfolded across two Provincetown cultural landmarks. Festivities began Friday evening at the Fine Arts Work Center with an artist talk between Howe and Schor, moderated by Executive Director Sharon Polli. It was followed by lobster rolls and rosé, before guests traveled to the foot of the Pilgrim Monument on Saturday, where festive white tents held court. There, guests donning seaside celebration attire raised their glasses to the honorees.
Food and Drink: Specialty cocktails featuring GlenPharmer spirits, a seasonal dinner by MAX Ultimate Food (showcasing local Cape Cod ingredients), a plethora of desserts, and an espresso martini bar kept guests buzzing all weekend long. That, and music by DJ Chris Roxx and the Dirty Rotten Vipers jazz ensemble.
What You Missed: Guests raised paddles during Saturday’s fundraising challenge, led by playwright, author, and producer Celeste Lecesne. The over $600,000 in proceeds offer a positive boost of support for the year’s ongoing operations at FAWC, as well as their renowned fellowship program. “The fellowship offered the most beautiful version of life I think I’ve known so far. It allowed time to slow all the way down, and for my studio practice to fit into the consistency and rhythms of a holistic life,” 2025-2026 fellow Calhan Hale shared in remarks.
