Award-Winning Photographer Alan Jacobs Named 2026 G. David Hurd Innovator in the Arts Recipient

Lou Ann Townsend and Mary Filapek Announced as the 2026 Commemorative Poster Artists

(Des Moines, IA) – The Des Moines Arts Festival® is proud to announce international award-winning photographer Alan Jacobs as the tenth recipient of the G. David Hurd Innovator of the Arts. Des Moines-based Jacobs is widely recognized for his ability to capture candid interactions, emotion, and unforgettable moments through his event photography.

Presented annually, the G. David Hurd Innovator in the Arts is an honor bestowed on an individual or organization that “fully embodies innovation within the arts.” The recognition celebrates the legacy of the late G. David Hurd, former CEO of Principal Financial Group and visionary community leader whose progressive thinking and commitment to the arts helped shape the Des Moines Arts Festival.

Previous recipients include Jill Wells, Seso Marentes, Chris Vance, Hoyt Sherman Place, ArtForce Iowa, Girls Rock! Des Moines, Bravo Greater Des Moines, Chaden Halfhill, and Larassa Kabel.

“Alan Jacobs was selected for embodying the spirit of curiosity that Dave shared with so many of us,” said Stephen King, Executive Director of the Des Moines Arts Festival. “Alan’s inquisitive nature transforms everyday moments into lasting memories. He is a true storyteller whose work preserves the spirit and energy of our community.”

Trudy Holman Hurd recognized Jacobs at the Preview Celebration, a private reception held at Wellabe’s sculpture park. In addition to the announcement, the Festival recognized individuals who received Volunteer Legacy recognition and unveiled the 2026 commemorative poster.

2026 Commemorative Poster by Lou Ann Townsend and Mary Filapek

Lou Ann Townsend and Mary Filapek’s current bodies of work are inspired by the things that bring them joy – travel, nature, cosmic interconnections, and exploring the relationship between the inner and the outer.

From Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mary and Lou Ann collaboratively build each piece as a journey that begins with a conversation. Their drawings start with the subject and basic outline for a piece. Lou Ann paints in the composition and structure of the piece, and then Mary goes in with graphite pencils, colored pencils, and pastels to flush out the details.

Mirror Lake

The 2026 Commemorative Poster, Mirror Lake, is an original drawing featuring a calm, picturesque river nestled alongside colorful bluffs on a beautiful fall day. The poster will be available to purchase with or without a custom frame during the annual arts festival on June 26-28, at two Arts Festival Shops.

Volunteer Service

Des Moines Arts Festival recognized Bill Burma for 10 years of service on the Board of Directors. Bill joined the board in 2017. He served on the executive committee beginning in 2020 and Chair in 2023 and 2024. Bill is retired from Grand View University.

For service on the Des Moines Arts Festival Event Management Team: Amanda Joseph, David Derong, Emily Kibbee, Erika Reida, Katie Dale, Megan Hanson, Sam Christenson (five years of service), and Alan Jacobs (10 years of service).

Images from the Preview Celebration are available here.