The American Academy of Arts and Letters Award is a prestigious honor given to individuals in the fields of literature, music, and the visual arts. Established in 1898, the award recognizes outstanding artistic achievement and is presented annually to a select group of artists and writers. Recipients of the award are chosen by members of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, an organization comprised of distinguished artists and architects. The award not only acknowledges individual talent but also aims to promote the importance of the arts in American culture.