The St. Catharines Arts Awards return in 2019.

The competition is designed to increase the visibility of local artists and cultural industries, honour cultural leaders and their achievements, help support the arts sector, according to a media release.

The nomination deadline is Jan. 20, 2019 at midnight. Local artists, residents, businesses and organization are eligible for nomination, or to be the nominee. This year there are five award categories; Arts in Education Award; the Emerging Artist Award, Established Artist Award, Making a Difference Award, and the Patron of the Arts Award.

Artists must live in St. Catharines and be nominated by an individual or organization, not themselves. The award ceremony will take place May 3 at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.

An information session for the awards will be held at the Rodman Hall Art Centre Dec. 20, 6:30 to 8 p.m.