Pier-Anne Mercier takes the prize
New graduate Pier-Anne Mercier received the 2012 Concordia University Alumni Association (CUAA) prize for her artwork called I was not quite sure I understood what was expected of me in a situation such as this one.
Mercier’s multi-faceted, mixed media piece came to life through a delicate process. “As materials piled up, I couldn’t find any direction — then slowly it all began to make sense again. Colours, materials and shapes started working together through play and hybridization into a sculptural whole, showcasing little bits of my imagination,” she said.
Surprised by her win, Mercier said it’s a perfect ending to her four years of intense work and study. “The CUAA Prize gives me hope that I’m headed the right way artistically.”
Now in its 10th year, the $1000 CUAA Prize is awarded to a graduating student whose work is showcased at the Graduating Students Exhibition. This year’s winner was announced during the show’s vernissage at Concordia’s VAV Gallery, on René-Lévesque Blvd., June 20, also convocation day for the Faculty of Fine Arts.
“The annual Graduating Students Exhibition is always a highlight at convocation, as it celebrates and exemplifies an exceptional range of work at both the undergraduate and graduate levels,” said Catherine Wild, dean of Concordia’s Faculty of Fine Arts. “We are proud to count Pier-Anne Mercier and all the exhibiting artists among our esteemed alumni.”
Divided between Concordia’s VAV and FOFA galleries, the show is an opportunity for graduate and undergraduate students from diverse disciplines to show their work publicly and commemorate the completion of their studies.
CUAA prize-committee and board members Eli Chalupovitsch, BComm 75, and Kim Fuller, BFA 96, were impressed by the calibre of the exhibitors’ work — the innovation and use of techniques both established and new.
“I was surprised when I first approached Pier-Anne’s installation,” said Chalupovitsch. “With further study, I was struck by the childlike imagination it expressed and the bravery demonstrated by stepping out of the box. This could be the pre-cursor to a great creative career.”
The 10th annual Graduating Students Exhibition is open to the public and runs until July 6, 2012.
Related links:
• Graduating Students Exhibition
• Faculty of Fine Arts
• Concordia University Alumni Association
• VAV Gallery