Linda Goode Bryant Named 2020 USA Berresford Prize Winner

“I am so honored to receive an award that recognizes the people who have dedicated their lives to the magical process of generating new ideas with artists,” said Bryant. “I am forever grateful that I belong to a vast family of makers and creatives who have helped me to imagine the ways art can transform a community.”

The Founder and President of Active Citizen Project and Project EATS, and Founder of the Urban Eats initiative, Bryant’s career is fueled by social activism and a mission to enhance the lives and opportunities of artists. She is a Guggenheim Fellow and Peabody Award recipient. Bryant has also made several films (including the 2003 work Flag Wars, created with Laura Poitras) and established Just Above Midtown gallery in 1976—which helped jumpstart the careers of many acclaimed Black artists.

“Linda Goode Bryant is a visionary. Full stop. Her work changed the game for both artists and audiences,” said USA President & CEO Deana Haggag. “Whether as a gallerist, filmmaker, or community organizer, Linda has pushed our field to expand and we are all better for it. It is our privilege to honor her in this way.”

Named for USA co-founder Susan V. Berresford, the Berresford Prize was launched in 2019. The award includes an unrestricted $25 thousand prize, given to an administrator, scholar, curator, or producer who has made noteworthy contributions to creating platforms or conditions that encourage the wellbeing and advancement of artists. Bryant is the second honoree, joining inaugural recipient, Kristy Edmunds, the Executive and Artistic Director of UCLA’s Center for the Art of Performance.