Creative Living Award

We are now accepting nominations for the 2025 Creative Living Award!

Since 1983, the MVCF has recognized an Islander who has “enhanced and preserved the quality of life of the Vineyard forever” through the Creative Living Award. From artists, farmers, doctors to volunteers, past recipients highlight a tapestry of the life and values of Martha’s Vineyard.

So, if you know a Vineyard person or couple who courageously supports the community through service, inquiry, and sharing, someone committed to addressing an Island issue and who works to solve it through innovative thinking, we hope you’ll submit a nomination for this year’s Creative Living Award. Nominations are due to Martha’s Vineyard Community Foundation by Monday, June 9.

The Creative Living Award recognizes members of the Vineyard community who embody the spirit of Ruth J. Bogan—who in the words of her friend Ruth Redding, was a “gallant woman who loved beauty, who loved the Vineyard, and who believed ‘anyone can do anything.’” The Creative Living Award was initiated by Ruth Redding to honor her friend Ruth Bogan’s vision and spirit. Her $60,000 gift to create the award was the first charitable contribution that formed the Martha’s Vineyard Community Foundation. In her letter of instruction, Redding requested that a portion of the funds be used to “encourage fine craftsmanship, creativity, and ingenuity in many fields.”

To nominate an organization or individual for the 2025 Creative Living Award, please do so through the online form or send an email to and include the nominee’s name and contact info plus a description of their contributions to Island life and how they personify the qualities of Ruth Bogan. The mailing address for nominations is P.O. Box 243, West Tisbury, Massachusetts 02575. The award will be presented at an event hosted by the Community Foundation at a date to be determined.

LIST OF PAST CREATIVE LIVING AWARD RECIPIENTS