Nashville, TN - Lewis Snyder, a celebrated potter from Murfreesboro, has been named one of the recipients of the 2025 Tennessee Governor’s Arts Awards, the state's highest honor in the arts. Governor Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee announced Snyder as one of this year’s honorees, praising him as “a true leader in the arts” whose work contributes meaningfully to Tennessee's rich cultural landscape. The Distinguished Artist Award, presented by the Tennessee Arts Commission, recognizes Snyder’s decades of artistic achievement and leadership.

The local potter created ceramic dinnerware crafted for several U.S. Presidents—including Jimmy Carter, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, and the Clintons. Snyder has also been instrumental in the restoration of historic architecture through his work in architectural and ornamental terra cotta. His expertise has earned him the distinction as one of a select group of artists recommended by the U.S. government for such projects.

Beyond his personal creations, Snyder has helped build Tennessee’s craft legacy through education and advocacy. He taught at Middle Tennessee State University and founded several influential art institutions and organizations, including the Tennessee Association of Craft Artists (now Tennessee Craft), the Stone Rivers Crafts Association, and the Tennessee State Crafts Fair. He also helped establish the Appalachian Center for Craft, a prominent art school in Smithville, Tennessee.

Snyder’s influence stretches far beyond the borders of Tennessee. His work is housed in major collections including the White House, the Museum of Contemporary Craft in New York City, the Mint Museum in Charlotte, and international institutions such as the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague. Anne B. Pope, executive director of the Tennessee Arts Commission, called this year’s award recipients, artists who have made “a profound and lasting impact on who we are as a state.”

With a legacy that bridges fine craftsmanship, architectural preservation, and arts education, Lewis Snyder’s recognition as a Distinguished Artist underscores his lifelong dedication to enriching Tennessee’s cultural heritage.

Congratulations to Murfreesboro's Lewis Snyder.