Statement from Minister Streicker regarding doubled acquisition funding for Yukon Permanent Art Collection

Minister of Tourism and Culture John Streicker has issued the following statement:

“Today I am pleased to announce that funding for the Yukon Permanent Art Collection’s annual Call for Submissions has been permanently doubled from $30,000 to $60,000.

“This increase in funding was a key action recognized in Creative Potential, the Government of Yukon’s 10-year strategy to support the growth and development of the creative and cultural industries in the Yukon. It is an example of the Government of Yukon’s commitment to support artistic development and excellence and to encourage participation in and appreciation of visual arts in the territory.

“Founded in 1981, the Yukon Permanent Art Collection is a record of visual arts development in the Yukon, comprising prints, photographs, carvings, sculpture, textiles, paintings, drawings and mixed media works representative of artists and regions throughout the territory. It is an important cultural legacy that is acquired, managed and exhibited for the benefit of Yukoners and visitors.

“Each year, the Government of Yukon acquires new art for the Yukon Permanent Art Collection through an annual Call for Submissions. The call is open to artists in any discipline at any stage of their creative paths whose artwork has resonance with the North. The submission process allows for up to three original completed works per artist, suitable for display in a public building.

“There are currently over 530 art works in the collection by more than 285 artists, spanning every imaginable medium, from beading and carving to graphic novel illustrations to snow shovelling!

“Works by renowned Yukon artists like Keith Wolfe Smarch, Ann Smith, Jim Robb, Ted Harrison, Joseph Tisiga and Kaylyn Baker can be found in the collection.

“Five of the six finalists for this year’s Yukon Prize for Visual Arts have existing works in the Yukon Permanent Art Collection. Additionally, this year’s cohort of acquisitions included Cohen Quash who, at 14 years old, is the youngest artist to have work added to the Yukon Permanent Art Collection and is currently on display in the lobby of the assembly.

“The Yukon’s flourishing arts community continues to represent and enhance the territory’s growing reputation in the cultural field overall.

“I encourage artists to submit their work and lend their talents and perspectives to help tell the evolving story of Yukon visual art.

“Application forms and guidelines are available at the Department of Tourism and Culture offices at 100 Hanson Street in Whitehorse, at the Yukon Arts Centre at 300 University Drive in Whitehorse or on Yukon.ca.

“The deadline for submissions is January 31, 2024, and information sessions will be held to assist artists with the submission process.

“Our government is proud to offer this additional support towards the Yukon’s diverse and dynamic arts sectors, and we look forward to seeing the results from this latest round of submissions!”