“Estelle brings so much joy to her work, and she shares that same spirit with the people she teaches,” said Walton County Tourism Director Matt Algarin. “Her creativity and willingness to help others discover their own talents make a lasting contribution to our arts community. We’re proud to celebrate her as our Artist of the Year.”
The Artist of the Year accolade, now in its 24th year, honors a Walton County artist whose unique artistic expression captures the essence of the destination’s renowned creativity and beauty. Grengs said the recognition offered something every artist occasionally needs: reassurance that the years of creating, teaching and taking chances have mattered.
“I [am] elated,” Grengs said. “It kind of is validation for me. You put in the long hours. Sometimes you wonder, ‘Am I doing enough? Is my style something? Is it good enough?’”
Grengs owns Estelle Studio and Gallery in Freeport, where she hosts painting classes, private lessons and more. She also participates in the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and teaches throughout the region not just at her studio, but also at places like Hotel Effie and Props Brewery.
For people who encounter an Estelle Grengs painting for the first time because of the AOY award, Grengs said she does not need them to analyze every brushstroke or understand every artistic decision. She simply hopes they feel joy.
“I want them to look at it, and it make them smile,” Grengs said. “I hope it makes them forget about all the bad in the world or things going on in their life. It just gives them that moment to look into something that’s bright, happy, fun and joyful.”
The Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award was established in 2003 by Walton County Tourism to encourage and recognize excellence in hospitality service, travel/tourism marketing, advertising, promotion and contributions to the local community.
“Jason’s career is a perfect example of what hospitality is all about: caring for people and making their experience special,” said Algarin. “From his early days as a beach attendant to leading a team, he’s helped visitors make lasting memories and colleagues grow along the way. We’re delighted to recognize his dedication to the community he calls home.”
Since joining Sandestin as a beach attendant in 1998, Draughn has worked his way through the ranks, serving as a supervisor and manager before becoming activities director, where he oversees multiple resort operations. Along the way, he's helped develop recreational programs, beach activities and special events, like the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic, that have created lasting memories for countless visitors.
Draughn said he considers the Van Ness Butler, Jr. Award recognition a reflection of the mentors, coworkers, employees and family members who have supported him throughout his career.
“This award means a lot to me personally, but I also see it as a reflection of all the incredible people I've had the opportunity to work with over the years,” he said.
And while the recognition celebrates a career filled with dedication and accomplishments, Draughn hopes his greatest legacy will be the positive impact he's made on those around him.
“Walton County isn't just where I work, it’s my home,” he said. “To be recognized by a community that has given me and my family so much is truly one of the greatest honors of my career. I hope that somewhere along the way, I’ve made a positive difference in the lives of the people I’ve worked with and the guests we’ve served.”
Walton County Tourism’s annual meeting – which was attended by over 100 tourism and hospitality professionals – celebrated the destination’s strong tourism economy and the stakeholders that contribute to it. Learn more about Walton County Tourism at waltoncountyfltourism.com.
For more information on Grengs and the Artist of the Year program, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/artist-year.
For more information on Draughn and the Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Awards, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/van-ness-butler-jr-award.