We are pleased to announce the 2026 winners of our Annual Open Sky Juried Exhibition Show!

 

This year, Open Sky was held exclusively online. While online exhibitions are not the same as experiencing artwork in person, it’s still a great way to celebrate the talent in our region and provide accessibility for all artists. 

A big thank you to everyone who submitted their work and continues to be involved with Arts North East. This exhibition simply wouldn’t be possible without all the artists. I always enjoy seeing the diverse range of pieces and seeing both new and returning artists through their work.

I would also like to thank our judges, Candace Sanderson and Genevieve Robertson, who took the time to thoughtfully and critically review each submission. It was a privilege to hear their insights and perspectives throughout the process.

Lastly, I want to thank our sponsors: the British Columbia Arts Council, the Vancouver Foundation, and the Province of British Columbia. Their contributions make programs like Open Sky possible and allow us to recognize and celebrate artists through these awards.

Each year, our judges select distinguished awards for our four exhibition categories. This is not an easy task!

 

Distinguished Three-Dimensional Award – High Country Duel by Becky Banak

Distinguished Photography Award – Sky, Sea and Shore by Sara Impey

Distinguished Representational Award – Silent Symphony by Frances Obie

Distinguished Conceptual Award – The Healing Place by Laurie Yates

 

They also named 10 Honourable Mentions:

Where Old Rams Go to Die by Brogan Didier
Red Canoe by Rosemary Reid
Moose Calf by Peter Shaw
Mount Babcok by Payge Fortier
Shoes Off by Kim Ans
Pond at Sunrise by Lorri Langevin
Ember Heart by Celina Forbes
Fog Makes Depth by Larry Marchel
Blue Reverie by Caily Oldershaw
Spring on Charlie Lake by Joe Johnston

 

Congratulations to all the winners! A big thank you to everyone who was a part of this show.