OTTAWA, March 24, 2015
The Governor General’s Awards in Visual and Media Arts allow us to recognize the extraordinary talent of eight figures from Canada’s cultural scene who have particularly distinguished themselves throughout their career.
These awards, created in 1999 by the Canada Council for the Arts and the Governor General, are Canada's foremost distinction for excellence in the visual and media arts sector.
Arts, culture and heritage represent nearly $50 billion in economic activity and more than 647 000 jobs throughout Canada. Our Government is proud to support arts and culture by encouraging the talent of our creators in visual and media arts.
People and organizations devoted to the arts ensure the cultural development of our communities and enrich the quality of life of all Canadians. It is with great pleasure that I congratulate all the 2015 award recipients:
Louise Déry, curator, Montréal (Outstanding Contribution Award)
Robert Houle, visual artist, Toronto
Micah Lexier, visual artist, Toronto
Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, media artist, Montréal
Paul McClure, jewellery artist, Toronto (Saidye Bronfman Award)
Sandra Meigs, painter, Victoria
Rober Racine, visual artist, writer and composer, Montréal
Reva Stone, new media artist, Winnipeg
The dedication and passion of these artists, as well as the creativity of Canadians, shine across the country and around the world. I would also like to take this opportunity to commend the excellent work of the Canada Council for the Arts in presenting these prestigious awards each year.
Marisa Monnin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
