Grand-Pré Prize to be Awarded Annually

Acadian Nova Scotian artists will receive greater recognition for their work, thanks to some changes to the Grand-Pré Prize.

Tourism, Culture and Heritage Minister Judy Streatch announced today, March 31, that the department will increase both the amount of the prize and the frequency with which it is awarded.

Beginning in 2006, the Grand-Pré Prize will increase from $1,500 to $2,000 and will be awarded annually instead of every two years.

"These changes will help to raise the profile of the Grand-Pré Prize within the arts community, the Acadian community and the province," said Ms. Streatch. "We will now honour an outstanding Acadian Nova Scotian artist each year."

The Grand-Pré Prize was established in 1987 to recognize the work of Acadian Nova Scotians in the performing arts and film, visual arts and crafts, and literary arts. The prize recognizes artists whose work reflects Acadian cultural values and traditions, while demonstrating excellence and originality.

"We are fortunate to have many talented Acadian artists in Nova Scotia and we are pleased that more of them now have an opportunity to be recognized for the value they bring to Nova Scotia's unique heritage," said Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Acadian Affairs.

Previous Grand-Pré Prize winners include singer/songwriter Eric Surette; photographer Francois Gaudet; artisan Denise Robicheau; writer Father Anselme Chiasson; filmmaker Phil Comeau; visual artists Denise Comeau and Simone D'Eon; writer René LeBlanc; and folk artist William Roach.

Each year, a recipient is recognized from one of three categories. This year, the Grand-Pré Prize will be awarded to an established literary artist. The deadline for submitting nominations is Saturday, April 15.