2024 Arts Awards Winners Profiles

Wen’s work reflects on the possible but uncertain, and embraces the unpredictability inherent in our thoughts, bodies, and environment. With a background in engineering from China, Wen merges her cultural heritage with Western art training, resulting in a distinct fusion of influences evident in her creations. Wen has had numerous successes this past year, including her solo exhibition Tangible Experience at Kitchener City Hall’s Rotunda Gallery (an accomplishment that included support from the Ontario Arts Council via an exhibition assistance grant), inclusion in a group exhibition at OTENTIK that came out of her residency at Point Pelee National Park, inclusion in two local juried shows (Homer Watson and the Button Factory Arts), the latter of which won her a first-place award from juror Mark Walton. She also participated in the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition where she was selected for one of the “curator’s picks” reviews, along with participation in Grand River Artist Collective’s Annual member show.

Bangishimo embarked on a year-long project aimed at challenging conventional narratives about Indigenous peoples. “The Medicines We Carry” reimagines Indigenous identity by placing Indigenous individuals in genres often dominated by non-Indigenous representations, such as futurism, sci-fi, and fantasy. The project was not just a portrait series but a community-driven effort that brought together diverse voices and talents. Through open houses, hands-on craft workshops, and thought-provoking artist talks, Bangishimo created spaces for dialogue and engagement around Indigenous culture and artistry.

With acknowledgement of collaboration from Curators: Darryn Doull, Fitsum Areguy, Shalaka Jadhav, with mentorship from Textile; Preparator, Lawrence Salza; Beadwork by Britney Baldwin; Hair and Makeup by Maddie Resmer and Connie Roy; Lighting by Conan Stark and Phi Doan and all made possible by the Artist-in-Residence program at the City of Kitchener

Catherine Duval Russell moved to the Waterloo Region in 2012 and has been a longtime supporter and donor for artists and organizations in our region. Catherine deserves recognition this year for educating, supporting, and funding artists and arts organizations large and small, including staying strong throughout this years’ KW symphony journey. Catherine was also the first philanthropist to commit long term in supporting the local arts organization, Unwrap Theatre, helping them grow from seed into a functioning arts organization of five years this past March. Unwrap Theatre brings performances throughout the community from stages to care facilities and audiences who would not otherwise have the opportunity to participate.

Not only is this cherished institution, physically located in the heart of Uptown Waterloo since 1984, a valuable resource for acquiring a wide variety of quality reading materials, it is renowned for providing the entire region with a flourishing cultural destination for arts and community-related events. Of particular note is the considerable support provided by owners David and Mandy to non-profit groups, children’s programs, and arts and culture organizations through donations and sponsorships.