Some of the most creative, gifted and passionate members of Orillia's arts community were recognized Wednesday night at the sixth annual Orillia Regional Arts and Heritage Awards event at Creative Nomad Studios.
This year's event, organized by the Orillia Museum of Art and History, North Simcoe Arts, volunteers and sponsors, featured 18 nominees across five categories.
Leslie Fournier, organizer of Streets Alive in downtown Orillia and one of last year’s award winners, was the MC for the evening. She noted how difficult it was for the jury to select winners from the many deserving nominees.
“They wanted you to know that, like every year, all of the nominees are extraordinary people and organizations and all deserving of these awards,” she told those gathered at the downtown studio.
Each of the nominees was celebrated through a video tribute. Each of them discussed their work, what drives them and how they envision continuing on their path.
Local teacher Christina Bosco won the Education in the Arts, Culture and Heritage award, which recognizes an individual who inspires others to pursue their interests in the arts and heritage.
“I’m a music teacher who believes in the transformative power of music to inspire, connect and empower our students,” said Bosco in her video.
Since 2018 Bosco has encouraged aspiring musicians. She helped foster the courage and skills students need to perform annually at the Orillia Jazz Festival.
“It brings unity and it brings that kind of spirit that only music can bring to people at such an outstanding annual event in Orillia,” she said.
Mary Aileen Reed won the Heritage: Restoration, Renovation and Publication Award, which recognizes an individual or group who brought to life regional history through a physical restoration or creation of a permanent public record.
“I’m so happy to be in a room with everybody that is a story teller. Whether you are a painter or a teacher or a musician or an artist,” she explained when accepting her award.
Reed, a member of the Ramara Historical Society, is an independent historical researcher who began the Ramara Voice Facebook group.
“Through connecting with our past we discover who we are. When we’re telling our stories we’re sharing our grief and our love and joy and our hardships, and through history we’re also sharing our lessons,” she said in her video.
Next up was the Event in the Arts, Culture, and Heritage Award. “It recognizes an individual, organization, or corporation for their part in organizing a single or annual event that showcases the region’s creative talent or cultural heritage,” explained Fournier.
The winner was Pride Day in Orillia, which was a collaboration between Mariposa Arts Theatre and Lake Country Pride.
“You may not know it, but Orillia is a very gay place,” said Stevie Baker of Mariposa Arts theatre as everyone laughed and cheered.
“This is incredibly exciting,” she added with a smile, while describing their positive partnership with Lake Country Pride.
A young singer/songwriter was then recognized with the Emerging Artist Award. This award recognizes an individual of any age who is in their early years, (under five years), of launching a career in the arts. Nominees can be pursuing any genre of art.
Bella Frances, 21, was thrilled to be recognized.
“When I discovered songwriting I discovered something that wasn’t just words that disappeared as soon as you said them,” she explained, noting this is the first award she has received for her music.
“I just feel so acknowledged and seen by it. It feels so satisfying ... it encourages me to keep doing this,” she said.
How will this award affect her moving forward?
“It’s going to make me feel more confident, knowing I have this beautiful community at my back cheering me on," said Frances.
The final award presented was the Qennefer Browne Achievement Award.
“Qennefer was a devoted historian, designer, mother, and community supporter,” explained Fournier of the award's namesake "who gave so much of herself to support both arts and heritage organizations within the region."
The Orillia Silver Band was the recipient of the award for “outstanding contribution to the cultural life of their community,” said Fournier. The audience applauded with enthusiasm.
“I’m just astounded to be a part of this community that has been so supportive of us and our journey,” said Neil Barlow, the band’s musical director.
“To each and every nominee, you have added so much to the fabric of our communities. You have greatly enriched all of our lives. For your gifts that have made a difference to all of us, we say thank you,” said Fournier in closing Wednesday's celebration.
