Ottawa organization among finalists for Premier's Awards for Excellence in the Arts

_ (press release) _ Twelve finalists have been announced for the Premier’s Awards for Excellence in the Arts .

The awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of Ontario’s arts community and its contributions to a strong, vibrant culture sector. Now in its 10

th

year, the program recognizes artists and arts organizations whose contributions span a significant period of time.

This year’s finalists are: ** Artist Award **

 * 
Christi Belcourt -- Espanola, Visual Arts

 * 
David Buchbinder -- Toronto, Music

 * 
George Elliott Clarke -- Toronto, Literature

 * 
Dwayne Morgan -- Toronto, Literature

 * 
Lata Pada -- Mississauga, Dance

 * 
Larry Towell -- Bothwell, Media Arts

** Arts Organization Award **

 * 
A Different Booklist -- Toronto, Literature

 * 
Dusk Dances -- Toronto, Dance

 * 
Gallery 44 Centre for Contemporary Photography -- Toronto, Visual Arts

 * 
International Festival of Authors -- Toronto, Literature

 * 
Liaison of Independent Filmmakers of Toronto -- Toronto, Media Arts

 * 
Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans -- Ottawa, Multidisciplinary

Finalists were selected by a jury of experts across arts and culture disciplines. The winners will be announced on October 5 during a reception at the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto.