Peterborough Arts Awards launched
Six awards with $2K cash prizes to be awarded annually
A new class of awards dedicated to the local arts community is launching this year.
The Peterborough Arts Awards will honour local artists, art supporters and behind the scenes professionals.
Electric City Culture Council (EC3) officials announced details of the new initiative Thursday at the Peterborough Art Gallery. EC3 is presenting the awards.
There are six in total, each accompanied by a $2,000 cash prize.
The categories are:
Outstanding Emerging Artist – an artist in the early stages of their professional career.
Outstanding Mid-Career Artist – an artist who has been working professionally for at least five years.
Outstanding Senior Artist – an artist who has been practising for at least 15 years.
Outstanding Achievement by an Indigenous Artist – an Indigenous artist who has made significant contributions to the strength and vitality of the Indigenous community.
Arts Champion – someone who supports and encourages the development of the arts through philanthropy, volunteerism or the creation of partnerships or collaborations.
Arts Catalyst – a professional arts administrator, manager, art critic, curator, educator, programmer, or producer who has worked behind the scenes for at least five years.
Artists can practise in visual arts, media arts, theatre and performance art, dance, music, literary arts, or interdisciplinary arts.
Su Ditta, EC3 executive director, said recognition for the local arts community is long overdue.
“We thought, let’s recognize these incredible artists. Let’s shine a light on them,” Ditta said.
EC3 secured a sponsor for each award who has agreed to back it for five years.
While the recognition alone is encouraging, the cash prize goes a long way, too, Ditta said.
“Working in the arts is one of the most precarious sectors to work in,” she said.
Nominations for the awards open Monday and the deadline is April 16. Forms will be available on the EC3 website.
To be nominated, artists must have lived in the city or county for at least two years. Other eligibility requirements will be on the EC3 website.
The awards will be presented at the Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts on May 25 at the McDonnel St. Activity Centre. TIckets are $40. Tickets can be purchased by calling 705-749-9101.