Arts Achievement Award Winners Recognized
Contributed by Amy Terrill
In October 2020 the first ever Kawartha Lakes Youth Awards were presented including two Arts Achievement Awards in partnership with the Kawartha Lakes Arts Council. The winners have received an honourary one year artist membership and we are pleased to profile them.
Emma Couette – 17 – 24 age category
Emma has been writing seriously since she was 13. From 7 complete first drafts and many other attempts, she has seen two novels through to publication: I Silent Night (2019) and its sequel, Sacred Ruse (2020). Emma has also written short stories, one being featured in a Canadian Anthology with Polar Expressions Publishing. Next year, Emma hopes to publish 2 novels, including the third in her trilogy, and the first book in a new fantasy series.
“I felt very honoured and seen,” when I was awarded the Arts Achievement Award. “I honestly didn’t expect the award to go to a writer, as it’s not generally the first thing a person thinks of when you mention art. It’s great to be recognized for my own achievement and to know that writing is something to be proud of.”
Emma contributes her success so far to passion and discipline. “I always loved telling stories, even before I became a writer, so now it’s something I can’t imagine not doing. I love creating worlds for other people to visit and characters for others to meet.” She adds, “I make time in my schedule for writing. I make it a priority. I also set strict deadlines for myself so that I don’t get sucked into the rabbit hole of other to dos.”
She also confirms the importance of networking and collaboration, both to find the right people to critique her work, and to reciprocate, allowing her to read others’ works as well, which makes her a better writer.
Emma has some ideas in terms of how the creative community can support young artists: “I would say that we need more creative programs for youth. I am of course a member of the Teen Writing Circle at the library, but I feel like it isn’t well advertised enough to reach all the youth that could benefit from it. As well, I’d like to see an arts festival in the future, with workshops and keynote speakers, for every facet of the arts. I want us to lift young creators up and give them opportunities to learn and grow.”
Anna Hancin – 12 – 17 age category
Anna Hancin has been dancing for most of her life with a focus on highland, ballet, and modern. Anna has been involved in many community shows in conjunction with Lindsay Dance Studio and Triple Threat Theatre. She has also devoted herself to mentoring young dancers, something she sees as critical for her own success as well. “I want to thank my amazing dance teachers at the Lindsay Dance Studio as well as my highland teachers. I am truly grateful for each and every one of these mentors and look up to them. They have taught me life lessons, such as how to live gracefully and work hard.”
She believes strongly in collaboration. “Having others to guide and critique you makes you not only a stronger artist, but also a stronger person,” she says.
Anna would like to see more opportunities for young creators in future projects in the city. “I feel that it is so important to give artists a platform and incorporate it into the Kawartha Lakes, such as hosting performances and incorporating more art into the downtown area. Offering more programs for youth in all areas of art would greatly benefit the future generations of our community.”
While Anna has had to take a break from dance due to an injury, she hopes to return to her art in the New Year. “I am currently residing in Antigonish for university, and I am beyond excited to be in the heart of highland dancing,” says Anna. Anna is very grateful for the Arts Achievement Award.
