news | Monday January 10, 2011

National Program to Inspire Aboriginal Youth Achievement in Writing and Visual Arts

The Historica-Dominion Institute is calling on Aboriginal youth between the ages of 14-29 to explore an aspect of Aboriginal history through the literary and visual arts. This year, The Canadian Aboriginal Writing and Arts Challenge celebrates seven years of the Writing Challenge and proudly announces its inaugural foray into visual arts. Participants have a chance to earn national recognition and win up to $2000 in cash prizes as well as a trip for two to Toronto for a special awards ceremony attended by Aboriginal leaders, writers and artists.

“The Institute hopes to inspire a new generation of Aboriginal voices to share their stories and artistic expressions with Canada through the expanded Challenge this year,” says Jeremy Diamond, Director of Development and Programs, at The Historica-Dominion Institute’s National Office. “We look forward to receiving wonderful and creative submissions, both writing and visuals arts, and celebrating another year of Aboriginal achievement.”

Stories and artwork will be assessed by two impressive juries made up of some of Canada’s most celebrated Aboriginal leaders, writers and artists, including Giller Prize winner Joseph Boyden, playwright and author Drew Hayden Taylor and artists Kent Monkman and Maxine Noel.

“Young indigenous voices from across Canada dazzled last year,” Boyden says. “We believe that this important contest will continue to discover more and more talented Aboriginal youth.”

The Historica-Dominion Institute is the largest independent organization dedicated to history and citizenship in Canada. Its mandate is to build active and informed citizens through a greater knowledge and appreciation of the history, heritage and stories of Canada. For more information, visit the web site.

Contact: Laura Fraser

(toll free) 1.866.701.1867 ×240
lfraser@historica-dominion.ca