Four Calgarians win emerging artist prize
As one of four Calgary-based artists who received a prestigious Lieutenant-Governor of Alberta Emerging Artist Award Thursday at a ceremony in Edmonton, theatre director Eric Rose was not just elated for himself — he was also feeling proud of his community.
“This says something really great,” said the co-artistic director of Ghost River Theatre, interviewed in advance of the ceremony. “It says that the arts are flourishing in this province, and especially in Calgary. There’s something significant we’re doing.”
Other local artists to receive the award — which comes with a cheque for $10,000 — included dancer/choreographer Naomi Brand, co-founder of Calgary Contemporary Dance Collective, acclaimed painter/sculptor Chris Millar and photographer/sculptor Kristopher Karklin, who divides his studio time between Calgary and Fort McMurray.
The other four winners were Lethbridge-based mezzo-soprano Emma Parkinson and children’s author Diane Mae Robinson, from St. Paul, whose creation Sir Princess Petra shatters fairy-tale princess stereotypes. Representing Edmonton at the ceremony was filmmaker Kyle Armstrong and hip-hop artist Mitch Holtby, a.k.a. Mitchmatic.
As a young artist, Rose, 34, says he appreciates the recognition the award brings. “It’s important for us younger artists that this is recognized at such a high level. It gives us a clear sense of encouragement.” Also encouraging, of course, is the financial reward.
“It’s nice that an award like this is not just the philosophical pat on the back, Rose says. “It comes with a financial contribution. They’re saying: ‘Not only do we believe in you, but here is some means and resources to actually push your practice even further.’ ”