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Colin Smith, "Seebe", 2009
Colin Smith, "Seebe", 2009, lightjetprint face mounted on acrylic,48“ x 60“
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David Garneau
David Garneau
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Bradley Harms
Bradley Harms
Cenovus Energy today announced that Colin Smith of Calgary won first place in a company-sponsored art competition designed to help raise the profile of under-recognized artists in Alberta and Saskatchewan and to add works for display in Cenovus offices. Smith received $12,000 for being selected first in the competition.
David Garneau of Regina won second spot in the competition, collecting $10,000, while third place went to Calgary-based painter Brad Harms, who received $8,000. The prize amount includes the purchase of the artwork.
“My entry is part of a series I’m doing focused on abandoned landscapes,” said Smith. “They take a long time to produce, so it’s great to be recognized for my work. I’m honoured and very appreciative of Cenovus as it’s challenging to make a living as an artist these days.”
Smith won for his work titled Seebee 2009, which used a technique known as camera obscura to create a startling picture. Seebee 2009 features the view of a derelict room from an abandoned building, combined with an inverted image of the exterior landscape.
Cenovus engaged art experts from Alberta and Saskatchewan to help design the competition and identify the artists for it. Based on recommendations from these experts, 37 artists were entered into the competition for judging by a separate panel comprised of five people well-known for their knowledge and expertise in western Canadian art. The panel was made up of philanthropist Ann McCaig and entrepreneur Brett Wilson, both of Calgary; Calgary-based Chris Cran, a senior artist; Catherine Crowston, Executive Director of the Art Gallery of Alberta in Edmonton; and art patron Lynda Haverstock, President & Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Regina and the former lieutenant-governor of Saskatchewan.
“The judges were very impressed with the quality of the entries in the competition, which speaks to the wealth of talented artists in Alberta and Saskatchewan who sometimes don’t receive the attention they deserve,” said Brian Ferguson, Cenovus President & Chief Executive Officer. “We’re pleased to support these artists and help them continue in their work. We believe that having art in the workplace creates an inspiring environment. Supporting arts and culture adds to the pride our staff has in working for our company.”
The judges also awarded honourable mentions to three other artists in the competition: Paul Bernhardt of Edmonton; Canmore, Alberta-based David Foxcroft; and Michael Cameron of Banff.
