Winnipeg artists recognized at Mayor's Luncheon for the Arts

When you're in the profit business, to be recognized by arts organizations is very meaningful. It means we've walked across the line from just people who make money to people who really care about what they're doing for the arts in the city.

—Holly McNally, co-owner of McNally Robinson Booksellers

Winnipeg artists, arts organizations and arts supporters were honoured on June 15 as the Winnipeg Arts Council presented its annual awards at the sixth annual Mayor's Luncheon for the Arts.

Five awards were given out recognizing excellence and creativity in, and contribution to the arts.

McNally Robinson Booksellers won the Arts Champion Award for demonstrating sustained support to the arts in Winnipeg. Interestingly, the nomination came not from a writer or book publisher, but from the the Agassiz Chamber Music Festival.

"I have to say it's the arts component of the business that we've always really loved," said Holly McNally after receiving the award.

"It feels like the culmination of everything we've been working towards. When you're in the profit business, to be recognized by arts organizations is very meaningful. It means we've walked across the line from just people who make money to people who really care about what they're doing for the arts in the city."

Filmmaker and illustrator Leslie Supnet was honoured with the RBC On the Rise Award which recognizes an artist demonstrating promise in his or her artistic field.

"It's phenomenal," she exclaimed. "The Winnipeg arts community is so supportive and so encouraging. I think this community is really unique and I feel blessed to be a part of it."

The Making a Mark Award is given to an established professional artist who is receiving critical recognition for excellence in Winnipeg and beyond. Michael Dumontier received the award for establishing the internationally recognized Royal Art Lodge.

Larry Desrochers was named recipient of the Making a Difference Award for his contribution to the growth and development of the arts in Winnipeg. Currently general manager of Manitoba Opera, he was also celebrated for his pioneering work in creating the Winnipeg Fringe Festival.

José Koes was given the Making a Difference Award as Outstanding Volunteer. She has been volunteering at the Winnipeg Art Gallery for 31 years.

Over 460 people came to the luncheon at the Fairmont Hotel. Sam Katz and 11 city councillors were in attendance. And as Laird Rankin, president of the Winnipeg Arts Council board, noted in his welcoming speech -- all 11 paid for their own lunch tickets.

Katz is patron of the event, and earned his keep by handing out the awards. The sketch comedy troupe Hot Thespian Action acted as entertaining hosts for the event and playwright Rick Chafe gave the inspiring address.