April 11, 2007

by Her Excellency Michaëlle Jean

Last week, on the occasion of the Canada Council for the Arts’ 50th anniversary, we took the opportunity to honour artists. Fifty years of support for artistic creation deserved to be celebrated, so we invited 50 laureates to Rideau Hall, people who had received Council for the Arts awards in various disciplines since 1957. Joining in on the celebrations were a number of people from the cultural community and others who are passionate about art. The Ballroom, where we normally hold very solemn, official ceremonies, was once again used for its original purpose: we rebuilt the stage for the evening and violinists Marc Djokic and Suzanne Yi-Jia Hou, soprano Marie-JoséeLord, hip hop dancer Tracee Smith, Aboriginal singer Lucie Idlout, comedian Albert Millaire, as well as songwriter John Gray on piano, all took turns performing.

 The exhilarating evening was marked by moving reunions, lively discussions, passionate and engaging conversations, stories and anecdotes.

Jean-Louis Roux told us about his life in the theatre by sharing poignant memories. John Murrell reminded us of the sense of adventure and recklessness behind the creation of the Banff Centre. Sara Diamond, ever rebellious and provocative, was adamant that support for artistic creation requires boldness and a willingness to take certain risks. And Antonine Maillet—the woman behind all those characters we love so much—speaking in the rich language of her native Acadia, explained how stories are created and that inspiration comes from encounters, and stories, from simply listening.

I will see Antonine Maillet again soon in New Brunswick when I go on my first official visit to that province. I look forward to visiting the maritime province whose beautiful landscape, dynamic people and colourful stories are renowned. I am getting ready to meet with representatives from all sectors of society, including a number of artists and young people. I will also go out to sea with fishers! I can’t wait!