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Patti Smith honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at Global Arts Summit
Renowned artist Patti Smith was celebrated with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Global Arts Summit held in New York City last night. The event honored Smith’s five-decade-long career as a pioneering musician, poet, and activist, cementing her status as one of the most influential cultural figures of our time.
The ceremony featured tributes from luminaries in music, literature, and the arts, including Bono, Laurie Anderson, and Salman Rushdie. Each spoke of Smith’s groundbreaking contributions to punk rock, her poetic genius, and her unwavering commitment to social and political causes.
Accepting the award, Smith delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on her journey as an artist. “Art is not a luxury; it’s a necessity,” she said. “It’s how we communicate our humanity, challenge oppression, and dream of better worlds.” She also emphasized the importance of nurturing young artists and called on the audience to support creative communities worldwide.
The evening included a surprise performance by Smith herself, who took the stage with her longtime collaborator, guitarist Lenny Kaye. They performed some of her most iconic songs, including “Because the Night” and “Gloria,” bringing the audience to their feet.
Smith’s career began with her 1975 debut album, Horses, a seminal work that merged poetry and rock, influencing countless musicians. Over the years, she has expanded her creative reach through acclaimed books like Just Kids and M Train, as well as her photography and activism.
