RURAL YOUTH ART AWARD & BURSARY PROGRAM

Celebrating Young Creators in Our Community

The Minto Arts Council proudly supports youth arts education through its annual Archie Awards and Bursary Program. These awards recognize the outstanding creativity, dedication, and talent of students in the Town of Minto.

A young woman with blonde hair standing next to a painting of a cityscape with dark sky and a couple dancing under a lamppost, with other people in the background.

encouraging youth artists

Creative confidence starts early. But many young artists lack formal recognition for their work, and even fewer have access to support that helps them take their talents further.

The Archie & Bursary Awards aim to change that by celebrating artistic growth in local students and encouraging future studies in the arts. These awards are more than certificates. They’re a signal to young creators that their voices matter and their talent is seen. For many students, this is their first public recognition as artists.

Through the Archie and Bursary programs, MAC reinforces the role of the arts in shaping confident, thoughtful, and imaginative young people.

minto arts council awards

The Archie Awards

Each year, students from Minto-Clifford Public School and Palmerston Public School are nominated by their art teachers for their creativity, enthusiasm, and promise. One Grade 7 and one Grade 8 student are recognized at each school with the Archie Award for Arts Achievement.

The Bursary Award

Presented to a graduating student from Norwell District Secondary School, this bursary supports their pursuit of post-secondary education in the arts or a related field. It also acknowledges the student’s contribution to MAC and their artistic leadership in the community.

Past Award Recipients

2024

Minto-Clifford Public School

  • Grade 7: Opal M.

  • Grade 8: Evan K.

Norwell District Secondary School Bursary Recipient
Shayne Lamont
Shayne was also a valued student liaison to the Minto Arts Council in 2024.

A man and a young man in a suit standing together at an award ceremony. The young man is holding a trophy and a certificate, smiling.
A young girl and an older man standing together in a gymnasium, with the girl holding a trophy, both smiling at the camera.
A young woman in a black and red dress shakes hands with an older man in a light blue polo shirt on stage during a ceremony at Norwell District Secondary School. The stage has a black table with a flower arrangement and a person seated on the right side. People are in the background, and a large banner with the school's crest is visible.

how it works

  • Students are nominated by teachers at participating schools.

  • Award recipients are celebrated at year-end graduation ceremonies.

  • Bursary applicants may be invited to connect with MAC throughout the year as student liaisons.

  • Awards are funded through community support and MAC fundraising initiatives.

A woman showing a colorful collage art piece to three older adults in a room with wooden floors and a large window.

Spotlight on Young Artistic Talent

Each June, the Minto Arts Gallery transforms into a vibrant showcase of student creativity. Our Annual Student Art Show features work from young artists across local schools, including Norwell District Secondary School.

This exhibition provides students with the opportunity to:

  • Exhibit their artwork in a professional gallery setting.

  • Share their creative voice with the broader community.

  • Experience the joy of having their art seen, celebrated, and supported.

Visitors can expect a wide range of styles and mediums, from drawing and painting to sculpture, mixed media, and photography.

The Student Art Show is free to attend and open during regular gallery hours.

Support the Future of the Arts

Want to help the next generation of artists grow?

You can contribute directly to the Archie & Bursary Awards through donations or sponsorship.