Bruce LaBruce, Kent Monkman win Governor General’s Awards in visual and media arts

By: Cassandra Szklarski, The Canadian Press Posted: Last Modified:

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Toronto filmmaker Bruce LaBruce and Cree visual artist Kent Monkman have each won a Governor General’s award in visual and media arts.

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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 05/03/2025 (580 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Toronto filmmaker Bruce LaBruce and Cree visual artist Kent Monkman have each won a Governor General’s award in visual and media arts.

They’re among eight artists receiving the $25,000 prize and bronze medallion for exceptional contributions.

The Canada Council for the Arts says its Artistic Achievement Awards also go to Montreal’s Sandra Rodriguez, Vancouver’s Jin-me Yoon, Thaddeus Hołownia, of Jolicure, N.B., and Clive Robertson of Kingston, Ont.

Canadian Cree artist Kent Monkman poses for a photograph at his exhibition
Canadian Cree artist Kent Monkman poses for a photograph at his exhibition "Shame and Prejudice: A Story of Resilience" in Toronto on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette

The Saidye Bronfman Award for distinction in fine crafts goes to furniture designer Peter Pierobon of Salt Spring Island, B.C.

Meanwhile, the Outstanding Contribution Award – for exceptional contribution in a volunteer or professional capacity – goes to Vancouver curator Daina Augaitis.

Arts council director Michelle Chawla says a common thread among recipients is their deep connection to their respective communities.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 5, 2025.

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Kent Monkman stands next to his new permanent sculpture, dubbed “The Colony,” as shown in this handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout-Michael Seleski (Mandatory Credit)

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