Nominations now open for the Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Applied Art + Design Award
Presented by BC Achievement Foundation, distinctions recognize local creative prowess
SPONSORED POST BY BC Achievement Foundation
Jamie Gentry, Polygon Award in First Nations Art 2022 awardee.
Latham Mack, Polygon Award in First Nations Art 2022 awardee.
BC Achievement Foundation is announcing an open call for nominations beginning June 1 for two accolades: the Polygon Award in First Nations Art, and the Applied Art + Design Award.
The Polygon Award in First Nations Art Program honours B.C. artists for excellence in traditional and contemporary First Nations art. Over the past 16 years, the title has allowed several exceptional First Nations artists to be celebrated for their respective practices—whether that might be carving, painting, beading, weaving, photography, jewellery, masks, sculpture, stonework, printmaking, basketry, textiles, or media art.
Mask carved by Haida artist Reg Davidson, winner of the 2022 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Award of Distinction.
The First Nations Art Award program creates a platform for community engagement, mentorship, and storytelling. It rejoices in the intersection of art and culture, and prioritizes the continuous recognition of tradition. The process also invites an opportunity for critical creative reflection and exposes artists to a wider audience.
Now in its 19th year, the Applied Art + Design Award honours skill and accomplishment, while simultaneously inspiring achievement in applied art and design throughout the province. The program celebrates British Columbians whose work enhances day-to-day life for individuals and contributes to the cultural and economic fabric of the province. To be considered for this award, artists must produce work that serves a practical or functional purpose, such as furniture, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, weaving, glass, fashion, or industrial design.
Lighting designed by Caine Heintzman, winner of the 2022 Applied Art + Design Award.
When applying for either award, artists have the option to self-identify in one of two categories: emerging or established. Emerging artists have developed basic techniques through education or apprenticeship, and are in the early stages of launching a professional career. They have created and publicly presented a body of independent work and are ready for the next step in their artistic development.
Established artists have demonstrated advanced techniques, shown a commitment to their art practice, and are recognized in their community as artists. They have publicly presented a significant body of independent work and serve as mentors in their respective artistic community.
Upon request, established artists can also be considered for the Award of Distinction designation for lifetime achievement, which recognizes extraordinary and sustained accomplishment in the field of their accolade. It is also a commemorative reflection on how these artistic leaders ensure that B.C. is a place filled with astonishing craft, committed visions, unique expressive power, and continuous wonder.
A combined exhibition showcasing the 2023 recipients for both the First Nations Art Award and Applied Art + Design Award will be held from November 14 to 23 at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre.
BC Achievement Foundation is a nonprofit organization with a mission to honour excellence and inspire achievement throughout the province. Established in 2003, the foundation currently runs five annual award programs that recognize the accomplishments of individuals, groups, and organizations in the areas of community leadership, applied art and design, First Nations art, Indigenous entrepreneurship, and reconciliation.
Nominations for the First Nations Art Award and Applied Art + Design Award can be submitted online through the BC Achievement Foundation website from June 1 to 30. Award winners will be announced in the fall.
Post sponsored by BC Achievement Foundation.
Moccasins crafted by Kwakwaka’wakw artist Jamie Gentry, winner of the 2022 Polygon Award in First Nations Art.