Widely recognized as the pre-eminent prize for Canadian artists 40 and under, the Sobey Art Award continues to attract national and international attention. Presented annually, the prize celebrates some of this country’s most exciting young artists — most of whom go on to artistic careers of considerable renown — while also providing significant financial recognition.

On view for the first time at the Art Gallery of Alberta, the Sobey Art Award exhibition features works by this year’s five shortlisted artists: Stephanie Comilang, Nicolas Grenier, Kablusiak, Anne Low and D’Arcy Wilson. Certain to fascinate, challenge and inspire, this group exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to experience the best and brightest in Canadian contemporary art.

Organized by the National Gallery of Canada and the Sobey Art Foundation in collaboration with the Art Gallery of Alberta. Visit the National Gallery of Canada website for more information.

JUROR'S STATEMENT:

Nicolas Grenier is interested in the infrastructural poetics of the different systems we inhabit. Applying a formal language based on complexity, 'mixity' and inclusivity, he addresses the design and visualization of these systems. In his works, colour fields encourage a contemplative state of mind, words are anchors for content, and architecture embodies ideas that would otherwise remain intangible.

Each year, the Sobey Art Award assembles a variety of artistic practices, bringing to the fore new voices in Canadian art. Although he has achieved recognition in Quebec and Los Angeles, Grenier occupies a discrete place within the Canadian art scene. Hopefully, his nomination to the Sobey shortlist will affirm the importance of his presence and work at a national level.

-Jo-Ann Kane