Last July I was contacted by a representative from the Nova Scotia Provincial Government Department of the Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, to do a special award for the recipient of the Nova Scotia Strong Award.
The Nova Scotia Strong Award recognizes an individual or group who come together to demonstrate resiliency in community during a time or event where people face adversity.
The organisation wanted a 12x16 inches painting from a local artist to serve as the speciality award for the 50th Provincial Volunteer award celebration.
They found me through my Creative Pictou County profile page, since the recipient is from the Pictou County as well. They liked my style, they asked for a maritime scenery and wanted to make sure I could deliver by the first week of September.
I was happy to do so, I know that those commission work always reach the heart of people. I decided on a music related composition to better represent the winner;— Heather Thomson, founder, Ultimate Online Nova Scotia Kitchen Party
The Gala was held in Truro on the 18th of September and I was invited, with Gaétane, to attend.
This year, 72 volunteers received representative awards. Three specialty awards were presented at the ceremony: the Youth Volunteer Award, Family Volunteer Award and Nova Scotia Strong Award.
Only the last awarded prize recipient received an Art Piece and when we, me and Gaétane, got to the reception, I was welcomed as the « Artist » and our reserved table seats were upfront just beside, the table of Arthur J. Leblanc, the Provincial Lieutenant Governor.
I still fit in the doorway :)
It was a great Award Gala, with probably 300 to 400 attendees.
For the complete filmed ceremony and all other informations including the Official Program PDF, use the links.
and if you only want to see a snippet;
It was a privilege to be there and cheer on the dedicated volunteers who inspire us all.
Me and Heather Thomson
As always; living in a grateful mindset brings you daily rewards.
Thank you life and have a good day
Benoît