The Hnatyshyn Foundation announces REVEAL Indigenous Art Awards

Press Release

OTTAWA, 29 February 2016 − As part of its plans to increase support for Indigenous arts practice, The Hnatyshyn Foundation is pleased to launch a new program, REVEAL Indigenous Art Awards, to honour Indigenous Canadian artists working in all artistic disciplines. The comprehensive program of awards and promotional activities includes 150 cash awards of $10,000 each. The awards will be given in 2017, and will fuel the creation of new artistic works and leave a lasting cultural legacy.

The Awards recognize emerging and established artists working in traditional or contemporary practices, and will be given in six artistic categories including dance, music, theatre, literature, film/video (media arts), and visual arts/fine craft.

“The Indigenous Art Awards are a hugely significant contribution to our country’s continuing dialogue. These awards recognize that First Nations, Inuit, and Metis art is not just a cornerstone of Canada’s identity, but vital threads to its very fibre. I’m honoured to be involved in helping spread the message,” says Joseph Boyden, author and Honorary Patron of the Awards.

The awards are intended for practicing artists as performers and creators. Applicants must be of Indigenous descent, must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada, and must define and describe themselves as practicing artists. A jury of peers will select the award recipients. The Hnatyshyn Foundation will begin accepting applications starting on March 1st. The deadline for application is 1 June 2016.

The Hnatyshyn Foundation is a private charity established by the late Right Honourable Ramon John Hnatyshyn, Canada’s twenty-fourth Governor General, to assist emerging and established artists with their education, training, and career development, and to promote the importance of the arts in our society. Since 2005, the Foundation has invested over $1.3 million in the performing and visual arts through its programs for individual artists and curators.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to support and showcase the achievements of Indigenous artists across Canada in 2017,” says Victoria Henry, Chair of the Hnatyshyn Foundation.

Candidates may submit applications on-line or in hard copy. To apply on-line, please go to the following website: www.rjhf.com/indigenousawards

Candidates may also apply in hard copy by sending their submission package to Indigenous Art Awards, The Hnatyshyn Foundation, 340 MacLaren Street, Suite 303, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0M6.

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Please direct media inquiries to: Julie Hodgson at indigenousawards@rjhf.com

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