This Friday night, VANL-CARFAC’s 2015 EVA award winners were named. EVA stands for Excellence in Visual Arts. The awards recognize not only the achievements of visual artists, but the “significant contribution visual arts make to the vibrant and dynamic culture of Newfoundland and Labrador.” VANL-CARFAC is run by a board of directors which includes representation from across the province, and their mandate can be read here. This year’s awards were bumped to $2,000.

The Long Haul Award: Winner, Kent Jones

The Long Haul Award recognizes a substantial contribution to the visual culture of Newfoundland and Labrador by a senior artist.

The Large Year Award: Winner, John McDonald

The Large Year Award celebrates a visual artist who has enjoyed an exceptional year, with at least one exhibition and critical recognition.

John Was shortlisted alongside Mike Gough and Virginia Mitford.

The Emerging Visual Artist Award: Winner, Kyle Bustin

The Emerging Artist Award honours the promising start made by an emerging visual artist in the early stages of their career.

Kyle Bustin was shortlisted alongside Joe Fowler and Mark Adams.

The People’s Choice Award, Mike Gough

A brand new award wherein the public nominated, then voted for the best visual artist in town.

The Critical Eye Award: Winner, Bruce Johnson

This award recognizes the impact that critical art writing can have on a visual artists’ career. Any writer worldwide who has written about a NL artist in any recognized print or online publication during the past calendar year is eligible for consideration.

Bruce was shortlisted alongside Overcast contributors Craig Francis Power & Martin Poole

The Kippy Goins Award, Sharon LeRiche (Craft Council Gallery)

This award recognizes an individual or organization whose efforts have helped to sustain and build the visual arts sector in our province.

Sharon was shortlisted alongside Mavis Penney, and John and Peggy Fisher.