Emerging Artist: Open to aspiring artists of any age in any discipline, whose work is of a professional standard. Individuals only. Includes $500 cash prize.
Outstanding Group: Recognizes incorporated organizations, institutions, and/or collectives for outstanding achievement in any of the fields of Literary, Visual, Media, Multi, and Performing Arts. May be for an ongoing activity or a new venture which has greatly enhanced the community’s artistic vibrancy.
Outstanding Individual: Recognizes individual achievement in any area of creative expression including Literary Arts, Visual Arts, Media Arts, Multi-Arts, Dance, Theatre, and Music. Outstanding Event: Recognizes public events (i.e., festivals, concerts, and other live performances) and one-time events by established groups, such as theatrical productions and art exhibits, for their outstanding accomplishment in the field of event presentation. Criteria include:
- Overall contributions to the field of event production;
- Professionalism, creativity, and quality of presentation;
- Impact of the event including attendance, community benefits, quality of programming, and potential legacy;
- How well the event met its objectives (list objectives and results);
- Nominations must outline the conception, development, and execution of the event.
*The City of Owen Sound events are excluded from eligibility for this award.
Most Promising New Event: Same as Outstanding Event, but for events intended to be ongoing (i.e., annual) and have existed for no more than three years.
Cultural Catalyst: Open to any individual or corporate entity deemed to have made a significant and lasting contribution to the arts or heritage. Nominees may include volunteers, donors, sponsors, educators, innovative producers, etc. Except for recovering expenses, any volunteer nominated for this award does not receive any payment or honorarium for their involvement.
Cultural Heritage: Recognizes contributions to our tangible and intangible cultural heritage, including, but not limited to, restoration or adaptive re-use of historic structures; heritage displays, exhibits, installations, education, public services; the keeping and passing on of traditional songs, stories, and dance; traditional craftsmanship; literary works featuring historic themes or promoting heritage; heritage festivals and events; etc.
Lifetime Achievement: Recognizes individual contributions that have had a significant and lasting impact on local arts, cultural organizations, and the community. This award is appointed by the jury. Nominations are not accepted in this category, but suggestions may be emailed by Thursday, March 14 at 5 p.m. to the Events team.
