The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation:

Arts and Letters Awards Celebrates its 60th Anniversary

I rise in this Honourable House today to highlight the 60th anniversary of the Arts and Letters Awards Program. The creative process in Newfoundland and Labrador is fostered through this program, which is open to both amateur and professional artists.

Since 1952, many of the province's most successful artists first experienced the thrill of exhibition through winning the Arts and Letters Awards, including David Blackwood, Scott Goudie, and Christopher Pratt in the visual arts; Kevin Major, Helen Porter, and Michael Winter in the literary arts; and John Herriott, Michael Parker, and Brian Sexton in the musical category.

When 17 year-old David Blackwood won the competition in 1958, an admirer saw the winning piece and inquired if it was for sale. Blackwood replied, “Yes, for sale for $20. If Ms. Roche thinks that's too high, I may consider reducing the price.”

The program acknowledges the creative talent of established writers, composers, and visual artists, as well as the province’s young, up-and-coming talent. Over the last 60 years, thousands of artists throughout the province have participated in this program.

Mr. Speaker, with $135,000 received annually from the Provincial Government, the Arts and Letters Awards Program is a shining example of the arts initiatives being supported by the government.

I encourage everyone to visit The Rooms to see the Arts and Letters exhibition featuring artists who were part of the program this year. The exhibit runs until May 13.

Since the launch of the cultural strategy in 2006, the Provincial Government has made a significant investment in arts and culture in Newfoundland and Labrador. Support for arts and culture continues to be our priority.

2012 05 03             1:55 p.m.