In 2020, Sheila Hugh Mackay Foundation is concentrating grant funding on publications to forward the careers of New Brunswick visual artists. The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the first major grant in this cycle to the Textile Museum of Canada. This grant will support a critical publication on the work of Strathbutler, Anna Torma in conjunction with a major national touring exhibition. Torma, who won the prestigious 2020 Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts – Saidye Bronfman Award, will open a major solo exhibition Permanent Danger on April 4, 2020 at the Textile Museum of Canada. The exhibition is a celebration of Torma’s 40-year commitment to an innovative practice in contemporary textiles. It will feature 2017 artwork exploring human strife and vulnerability in a modern world. The Sheila Hugh Mackay is excited to be a supporting sponsor of the exhibition and publication. Exhibition curator, Sarah Quinton describes Torma’s career as “a dedication to a singular studio practice that has emerged from an early, deep understanding of embroidery traditions and their place in global contemporary visual culture” Permanent Danger will travel nationally, including at Sackville’s Owens Art Gallery in 2021.
This project was selected by the Sheila Hugh Mackay Foundation in appreciation for the importance of curatorial practice in the presentation of art. It has been a pleasure working with the Textile Museum of Canada and curator Sarah Quinton in this recognition of Torma as a significant Canadian artist.
Anna Torma: Permanent Danger
April 4, 2020 – October 25, 2020
Textile Museum of Canada
55 Centre Avenue
Toronto, Ontario