The Jane Goodall Institute Recognizes Global Leaders with MK Shannon Commissioned Award In Harmony

On November 7, 2008 in Washington DC, the Jane Goodall Institute held its second annual Global Leadership Awards Celebration presenting each honoree with a commissioned award designed by MK Shannon.

This year’s award recipients were US Representative Tom Udall for Excellence in Public Policy, Pierce and Keely Shaye Brosnan for Responsible Activism in Media and Entertainment, and Green Mountain Coffee for Corporate Social Responsibility. In addition, the Youth Leadership Award winners included Manoj Gautam of Kathmandu, Nepal, Emily Woodall of Banner Elk, NC, and Tayler McGillis of Toluca, Il.

The master of ceremonies for the evening was Anderson Cooper, host of CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360. Academy award-nominated actress Abigail Breslin and her brother, actor Spencer Breslin helped present the Youth Leadership Award.

MK Shannon designed the sculpted award called In Harmony incorporating the three elements requested by Dr. Goodall: a globe, a woman, and a dove. The custom design expresses the interconnectedness of our planet, humanity, and the peaceful coexistence that Dr. Goodall’s tireless efforts strengthen. “It is a rare honor to work with such an extraordinary woman as Jane Goodall,” said MK Shannon. “She is truly the inspiration behind In Harmony. We are so pleased and–yes–inspired by the opportunity to work with her and her wonderful organization for these two years.”

The Importance of An Artist's Signature

Historically artists have used their signature to mark their work. Consequently it has become a hallmark of the level of quality. Perhaps, it is simply the idea of pride of ownership. The artist signs their name to not only show ownership of the design of the work but also to announce themselves to the world along with their satisfaction with the completion of a work of art.

Many awards, particularly sculpted awards and even some custom awards do not carry the signature of the artist, or if the awards or trophies do carry a signature it is stamped into the sculpture. It is my belief that the work we do at MK Shannon Awards and Rewards is Awards Fine Art. Our sculpted awards, custom awards and commissioned awards all carry my signature etched into the metal by hand. It is a mark of quality and craftsmanship. It marks the sculpted award as an original created by my hand and no other. So when you are looking for unique awards or trophies to give for achievement, recognition or motivation, look for the artist’s signature on the award. It will tell you immediately that the artist is committed to the originality and uniqueness of their work and most of all to the quality. After all, you want to give an award that will be more that a decoration or momentary acknowledgement of accomplishment, you want to give a gift or award that has enduring meaning because of its artistic design and high quality.