Nomination Call for 2003 Grand-Pré Prize

The Department of Tourism and Culture is seeking nominations of established Acadian artists in the fields of dance, music, theatre and film for the 2003 Grand-Pré Prize.

The biannual award was established in 1987 to recognize the work of Acadian Nova Scotians in the performing arts and film, the visual arts and crafts, and literary arts. This year a performing artist or filmmaker, as selected by an assessment panel, will be awarded a prize of $1,500.

The purpose of the prize is to recognize artists whose work reflects Acadian cultural values and traditions, while demonstrating excellence and originality.

"This prize takes on more prominence this year during the Acadie 2003-2005 celebrations," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "The importance of Acadian contributions to our culture and heritage in Nova Scotia is further emphasized by the awarding of the Grand-Pré Prize."

The prize will be presented in September at Grand-Pré National Historic Site.

Previous winners include singer/songwriter Eric Surette; photographer Francois Gaudet; artisan Denise Robicheau; writer Father Amselm Chiasson; filmmaker Phil Comeau; visual artists Denise Comeau and Simone D'Eon; and writer René LeBlanc.

For nomination forms and additional information, contact the Department of Tourism and Culture, Culture Division, at 902- 424-4442 or visit the Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/dtc/culture .

The deadline for nominations is Aug. 1.