Student artists from local elementary and secondary schools gathered in the first floor gallery at Anitta Hamming’s Creative Nomad Studios on Friday afternoon for the presentation of awards by Sustainable Orillia. Contestants had been invited to submit their portrayals of Orillia as they imagine it to be in 2050 – if the city doubles down on efforts to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions and make the city sustainable for the long term.
Twenty people—students, parents, friends and teachers—were on hand as Fred Larsen, a member of the Sustainable Orillia board of directors, introduced the contest and explained that a panel of artist judges selected the winners from among more than a hundred submissions.
Councillor David Campbell and Tyler Hunt, Superintendent of Property and Assets, were on hand to add congratulations on behalf of the City of Orillia.
Elementary school winners were present to receive their prizes: First Prize winner, Brandon Ram (Couchiching Heights), Second Prize winner, Sadie Broders (Severn Shores) and Third Prize winner, Milo Irving (Severn Shores). Secondary school winners were Jazzy Mansfield, first prize, and Tristan Adam, second, both students from Twin Lakes Secondary School. Winners received cash prizes. A number of Honourable Mentions were also awarded.
“The submissions were most impressive,” said Fred Larsen. “They provide a window on how students of today imagine their future lives in Orillia. For the most part, their vision is one of sunshine, clean water and air resulting from clean energy sources, improved technology, and more sustainable living and working practices.”
A similar contest, open to adult artists from the community, will close on June 30. Selected entries will be included in a 2023 calendar which Sustainable Orillia will make available to the public in the Fall for just $10.
