At the April 29th QUIXOTIC launch event, we announced the recipients of the 2021 SUMMA awards for emerging artists participating in the BFA graduating exhibition.

McMaster School of the Arts Faculty and exhibition curator Alexis Moline presented the awards and expressed an immense amount of pride for the accomplishments of the entire 2021 graduating class. Congratulations to all participating artists for their hard work and dedication!

The Faculty Award, selected by the McMaster School of the Arts faculty, was presented to Lynda Dong.

Lynda Dong is an emerging artist based in Toronto. Her practice often combines traditional Chinese culture with Canadian contemporary art in an effort to innovate through experimentation and an exploration of materials. Her recent work addresses concerns over environmental issues and includes insights and reflections on the inheritance and development of traditional culture.

The Curator’s Award, selected by QUIXOTIC guest curator Alexis Moline, was presented to Julianna Biernacki.

Julianna Biernacki is an emerging artist from Welland, ON. Her current practice combines painting and hand needle punched rugs to create dynamic diptychs. Conceptually her work revolves around themes of image and how people present themselves to other, voyeurism, and making private spaces public.  Biernacki has been a part of the Hamilton Artist Inc. members SWARM (2019) show, been featured in Candy Floss Magazine (2020) and recipient of the Young Artist Award for best painting (2017).

Congratulations Lynda & Julianna!