The nominees for the 2002 Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence were announced today with Islanders being recognized in two of the four categories. The award ceremony is being held in conjunction with the annual Atlantic Craft Trade Show (ACTS) in Halifax from February 2-4, 2002.
The Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence recognize leadership and excellence in a craftsperson's life and in the lives of those who are strong supporters of the industry. The list of nominees for the 2002 awards are - Outstanding Exporter: The Dark Tickle Company (NF), NovaMercantile.com (NS) and Multi-Ply Wood Design (NB); Outstanding Retailer: The Island Crafts Shop (PEI), Simple Things (NS), Under One Roof (NS) and Oval Door Arts & Crafts (NB); Industry Leader/Supporter: Joan Auld (PEI), Cumberland Black Artists (NS) and Cape Breton Centre for Craft (NS); Excellence in Product Design: Jane Sasonow-White (NF), Sharon Fiske (NS), Joan Bruneau (NS), Wendy Johnston (NB) and Multi-Ply Wood Design (NB).
"The Atlantic Canada Craft Awards recognize excellence in the industry and I'm not surprised to see these Islanders on the list of nominees," said the Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Development and Technology. "Prince Edward Island crafts and giftware continue to grow in popularity and the quality is second to none. l wish to congratulate all of the nominees for these prestigious awards, in particular Joan Auld and the Island Crafts Shop."
This will be the 25th year for ACTS and the award show has become a highlight of the event.
"The Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence are an important component of ACTS," said Chris Tyler, chair of the 2002 show. "This is our opportunity to recognize the leaders, who by example, personify the highest standards and credibility within the Atlantic Canadian craft and giftware industry."
ACTS is organized by the provincial governments of Atlantic Canada, providing a bridge between retail and wholesale for crafts and giftware producers. For more information, visit the Atlantic Craft Trade Show website at www.actshow.ca.