2023 Polygon Award in First Nations Art Recipients
byThe BC Achievement Foundation has announced the 2023 recipients of the Polygon Award in First Nations Art. Presented annually, this award program shines a light on artistic excellence in traditional, contemporary or media First Nations Art.
2023 Polygon Award in First Nations Art Recipients
Now in its 17th year, the Polygon Award in First Nations Art recognizes those who have demonstrated a commitment to their art practice; have accumulated a body of work; and are recognized in their communities as artists. Celebrating the intersection of art and culture, while honouring First Nations artistic traditions, the program creates a platform for community engagement, mentorship, and storytelling.
The 2023 recipients, chosen by an independent jury, are:
- Brent Sparrow – Musqueam, Vancouver
- Klatle-bhi Charles Sam – Kwakwaka’wakw / Squamish, West Vancouver
- Shawna Kiesman – Nisga’a, Ts’msyen, Haida, Victoria – Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist
The 2023 Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement, as decided by the BC Achievement Board after community consultation, is: Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) – Kwakwaka’wakw / Squamish – West Vancouver
About the 2023 jury members
The 2023 jury members include Nathan Wilson, Nuu-chah-nulth, Gitxsan and Kwakwaka’wakw ancestry and 2020 recipient; Shawn Hunt, Heiltsuk and 2011 recipient; Xémontélót Carrielynn Victor, Cheam First Nation and 2018 recipient. Connie Watts, Associate Director, Aboriginal Programs, Emily Carr University of Art + Design and artist of Nuu-chah-nulth, Gitxsan and Kwakwaka’wakw ancestry; and Brenda Crabtree, former Director, Aboriginal Programs, and Special Advisor to the President on Indigenous Initiatives, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, a member of the Spuzzum Band with both Nlaka’pamux and Sto:lo ancestry, served as advisors.
Awards Ceremony and Dinner
The foundation is hosting a ticketed award ceremony and dinner on Wednesday, November 15th at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre in Vancouver, where each recipient will be honoured with a short film highlighting their accomplishments. Awardees will also be celebrated through an online campaign, #ShineTheLightBC. Tickets are available now.
Free Art Exhibition at the Roundhouse
BC Achievement is also proud to present a combined exhibition showcasing the recipients for both the 2023 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Applied Art + Design Award. The exhibition, which is free and open to the public (RSVP here) will take place at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre from Thursday, November 16th to Wednesday, November 22nd.
About BC Achievement Foundation
BC Achievement is an independent foundation established in 2003 that celebrates the spirit of excellence in our province and serves to honour the best of British Columbia. By recognizing the accomplishments of our province’s entrepreneurs, artists, community leaders, youth and volunteers, its award programs pay tribute to exceptional people, doing exceptional work, while carving a path forward for others to follow.
Miss604 is a proud sponsor of BC Achievement Foundation programs in 2023
Related: 15th Annual Indigenous Business Award Recipients; 2023 Reconciliation Award Recipients; BC Achievement Foundation Community Award Recipients
