The Arts Council of the Central Okanagan (ARTSCO) has revealed the new design for the third annual Okanagan Arts Awards.

The 2010 award will be a three-dimensional bronze sculpture, titled Unity, which has been created by Kelowna artist Jeanne Bates. 

Bates’ design was chosen from among three finalists, including a unique glass sculpture, Bow, by Vernon artists Chiara Costa and Mike Nelson, and a sculpture, Hold on to your Dream, by Leta Shores of Oliver.

 “All the awards submitted were of very high calibre and it was very interesting to chair this committee,” said award selection head Julia Trops.  “The jurors considered originality, effectiveness, craftsmanship and artist statements in determining the final award.”

The Okanagan Arts Awards were created by ARTSCO to celebrate the arts, artists and arts supporters in a variety of disciplines.  

“These awards serve to underline the importance of the arts to the people and communities in the Okanagan,” said ARTSCO president Sharon McCoubrey.  “The arts make a significant contribution to the social, physical, and economic well being of any community. As such, it is important to support and encourage those who are instrumental in ensuring the arts survive and thrive in the Okanagan Valley.”

Along with revealing the official design for the award, ARTSCO also launched the call for nominations. 

Communities throughout the Okanagan are encouraged to nominate individuals and organizations for their contribution to the arts.  Previous winners have included artists from West Kelowna, Lake Country, Vernon, Salmon Arm and Kelowna. 

Nomination packages are available at www.okanaganartsawards.com or by contacting ARTSCO at 250-861-4123. The nomination deadline is Jan. 10, 2010.

The Okanagan Arts Awards celebration will take place March 4 in West Kelowna and will feature a showcase of artists and performers from throughout the region, along with the official awards presentation.