Student artists from across British Columbia will showcase their impressions of important environmental issues through a provincewide Earth Day Art Show and Competition in Surrey in April.
The 2011 Earth Day Art Show and Competition offers $3,500 in total prize money. Participation is open to all Grades 9 to 12 students currently enrolled in a B.C. secondary school, public or private. Cash prizes are $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second and $500 for third.
"Talented, artistic young people in communities across the province represent British Columbia's artists of the future," said Surrey-Panorama MLA Stephanie Cadieux, who's also minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. "Given the interest in the environment shared by many young British Columbians, I'm confident the competition will result in some first-rate, thought-provoking art."
A panel of three members from B.C.'s arts community will jury submissions through the Arts Council of Surrey. The panel will consider an entrant's background research, content sophistication and technical skill.
"Students will apply creativity and skill to show through their art how an environmental issue impacts their lifestyle now - or how it might do so in future," said Marc Pelech, a high school art teacher
in Surrey and co-ordinator of the art show and competition. "While the competitive aspect is always exciting and motivating, I think all the artists will benefit from the opportunity to show their talent and hone their skills."
Newton Cultural Centre in Surrey will exhibit the top 50 artworks throughout April 2011 and host a gala on Earth Day, April 22.
Teachers interested in having their students compete must confirm their participation by Jan. 28 and all artwork must be submitted by March 11 to: Sullivan Heights Secondary School, 6248 144 St., Surrey, B.C. V3X 1A1.
To confirm participation and learn more details about the competition, visit http://www.artscouncilofsurrey.ca/index.htm or email Pelech at pelech_m@sd36.bc.ca