Scotiabank Photography Award 2014 / Gala
April 29, 2014, 6 – 8 p.m.
Ryerson Image Centre
33 Gould Street
In a nice ceremony at Ryerson Image Centre the fourth winner of the Scotiabank Photography Award has been announced on April 29th, 2014.
Displayed on screens, major works and exhibitions of the three finalists, Rodney Graham, Mark Ruwedel and Donald Weber, surrounded the guests. Through these “windows” visitors could peak into the different realms of the artists; the violent, the idealized or the nostalgic. The guests grew with excitement and anticipation as the jurors outlined the merits of each finalist.
One of the finalists, Donald Weber (right).
Edward Burtynsky, the internationally renowned Canadian artist and chair of the Scotiabank Photography Award, explained that it was his personal experience that prompted him to create this prestigious award. It aims to boost the winner’s international presence in the art world, and contribute to the reputation of Canadian photography worldwide. Three jurors selected a winner from twelve nominees in a “strict search for excellence,” emphasized Jane Nokes, Director of Scotiabank Archives, Corporate Record and Fine Art Collection.
Edward Burtynsky, chair of the Scotiabank Photography Award
The prize went to Mark Ruwedel, the creator of mesmerizing black and white and colored landscape photographs of North America. Upon receiving the award, the artist was speechless, saying that it was “really cool” and promised to make “lots of good work” with the support provided.
Mark Ruwedel, winner of Scotiabank Photography Award 2014.
Mark Ruwedel, Central Pacific #18, 1994
Attendees could contemplate and enjoy the photographic results from last year’s recipient, Stan Douglas, in his exhibition at the Ryerson Image Centre, which will be on display throughout CONTACT festival.
Installation view of Stan Douglas exhibition, recipient of last year’s Scotiabank Photography Award.
After the ceremony visitors looked at Ryerson’s photo collection and enjoyed the rest of the evening.
Guests admire works from the collection of Maia-Mari Sutnik.
Toronto Majoral Candidate Olivia Chow was among the guest.
Mark Ruwedel (in the middle) with guests
Text and photo: Elena Iourtaeva