Highlights of the 25th anniversary celebration
On Nov 22, 2012, the New Brunswick Museum hosted a celebration to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sheila Hugh Mackay Foundation. Director Jane Fullerton praised the sustained efforts of the Sheila Hugh Mackay Foundation to champion growth in the visual arts in New Brunswick. She noted that it was fitting to hold the celebration in the Colin B Mackay Gallery, funded by the foundation to provide the only permanent collection of New Brunswick art in the province.
Kathryn McCarroll, SHMF executive director, welcomed Mackay family members, artists, politicians and art professionals from throughout the province who gathered to honour the work of the foundation. In thanking the New Brunswick Museum, McCarroll stated that this evening was both an acknowledgement of what has been accomplished and a promise for continued investment in the visual arts of New Brunswick. The Honourable Trevor Holder, Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Culture brought greetings on behalf of Premier David Alward.
The 2012 Nel Oudemans Award was presented to Monica Lacey by the late Strathbutler artist’s husband, Jack. Mr. Oudemans spoke of the importance of supporting young artists through juried processes.
Board Chairman, Louise Imbeault paid tribute to Sister Marie Hélène Allain who is retiring from Board of Directors after many years of service. Imbeault praised Allain, both for her advocacy for professional artists and for her help in developing quality programming. Allain praised Sheila Mackay’sgenerosity and vision in creating a great New Brunswick legacy.
The Premier David Alward’s Letter to the Foundation – download