Winnipeg Arts Council Announces Nominees

Several Manitoba musicians are vying for this year's Winnipeg Arts Council Awards. Nominated by their peers, nominees include 30 artists, arts administrators, and patrons in all disciplines, including dance, film, music, and visual arts. The winners will be announced at the 2009 Mayor's Luncheon for the Arts on June 11.

Emerging artists up for the On the Rise award including sought-after bassist Marie-Josée Dandeneau, singer/songwriter Sheena Grobb, and Francophone singer/songwriter Daniel ROA.

The Making a Mark award, which honours established professional artists who've received critical recognition for excellence, features a list of nominees including The Weakerthans' John K. Samson, Nathan's Keri Latimer, and Musica Speciale's artistic director John Racaru.

Former West End Cultural Centre exective director Nan Colledge and artist Rik Leaf are up for the Making a Difference award for their contributions to the growth and development of the arts in Winnipeg.

The Winnipeg Free Press is up for the Arts Champion award for its work supporting local arts scene.