A historian, a reporter and musician, and a couple with a passionate belief in Surrey as an arts hub have been announced as Surrey’s 2015 Civic Treasures.
Roger Bose, Alex Browne and Cora and Don Li-Leger are to be honoured at the Surrey Arts Centre on Oct. 6, at the annual Business and the Arts Reception.
The award honours individuals who have achieved excellence in the production of the arts and/or made significant contributions to the development of arts and heritage in Surrey and beyond.
Each of the recipients “exemplify the true spirit of a Civic Treasure,” Coun. Judy Villeneuve, chair of the public art advisory committee, said in a release Tuesday morning.
“Their contributions to the arts and heritage communities in Surrey are significant and form part of the city’s cultural legacy. For this, we are truly grateful.”
Bose, a lifelong Surrey resident, is noted as a source of historical knowledge in the city, particularly Cloverdale; an active volunteer with such organizations as the Surrey Historical Society; and an instrumental research contributor to an upcoming book about the Bose Family Farm.
Browne – who is Peace Arch News’ longtime arts and entertainment reporter – is being cited for his decades of promoting and supporting artists and new arts initiatives in Surrey; his creative efforts and thoughtful critiques in PAN; and his own dedication as a musician and actor.
Cora and Don Li-Leger have a “passion for local Surrey art and artists (that) is matched only by their love of global contemporary art,” an online summary notes. Described by supporters as “an unending source of cultural knowledge and inspiration,” the Li-Legers are “tremendous role models and mentors for many local emerging artists.”
For more information, visit www.surrey.ca/awards