2026 Recognized Artists — Multidisciplinary
Emerging Professional Artists
Falling for Nothing,Photo Credit: Alysia Androsoff
Alysia Androsoff, photographer, multidisciplinary artist
Saskatoon
“The best way to get me to do something is by telling me I can't.”
Alysia Androsoff is a Canadian Photographer and Multidisciplinary artist whose lens lingers on the beauty of what often goes unseen. Rooted in queer spaces and drawn to the dreamlike, with eyes attuned to the obscured and a wit as clever as it is profound, Androsoff crafts cityscapes and surreal visions, weaving tender humour through every thoughtful print. Her work is a love letter to visibility—where all faces are welcome and every detail tells a quiet story.
What fuels Alysia: “The best way to get me to do something is by telling me I can't.”
“Alysia Androsoff is a visionary when it comes to photography. We have worked together multiple times now and it is magic every time. Alysia understands capturing beauty, and her work for it shows. Her work with bridging the queer community and art is substantial for Saskatoon.”
– from Kris Bynes’ nomination statement
Photo courtesy of the artist.
Ivana Beer, drag artist
Saskatoon
“I could be experiencing the worst in my personal life but when I’m on stage everything freezes ...”
Ivana Beer is Saskatchewan's number one messy clown. From reading your improvised comedy fortune at the Saskatoon Fringe or Remai Modern’s LUGO, to producing and hosting Sapphic Saturdays and being a hot music video girl for iconic local musicians. You never really know what you're going to get with her, but she can guarantee it will be funny and shocking in the best way possible. She loves bringing creativity to people in ways you've never seen before. She'll never leave you unsatisfied, but you'll definitely want more!
What fuels Ivana: “There’s nothing that heals me more than being Ivana, I could be experiencing the worst in my personal life but when I’m on stage everything freezes and I can experience the absolute joy and privilege of drag. I also always knew I was destined to be an artist, it was just a matter of finding my medium and I feel so lucky that I found the medium for me.”
“Jade Spoonheim, the human behind the persona Ivana Beer, has spent the past 5 years building a drag career in Saskatoon. She's done everything from local shows, Lugo, to comedy card readings at the Fringe, organizing drag shows and Sapphic Saturdays. They are a deserving artist.”
– from Lauren Froese’s nomination statement
Photo courtesy of the artist.
Josh Jacobson, multidisciplinary artist
Saskatoon
“A blank wall isn't empty. It's full of potential. ”
Josh Jacobson is a Saskatoon-based multidisciplinary artist merging muralism, digital design, and augmented reality to transform public spaces. Across 60+ Saskatchewan projects, he collaborates with municipalities, schools, and community organizations to create place-based installations that reflect local identity and spark connection. His practice bridges traditional visual storytelling with emerging technology from large-scale murals to interactive AR experiences, all guided by accessible, human-centred design that turns everyday spaces into vibrant cultural landmarks that resonate long after first glance.
What fuels Josh: “I'm fueled by the belief that art transforms ordinary spaces into places of meaning. A blank wall isn't empty. It's full of potential. Whether through murals that anchor a community, design that solves a problem, or AR that reveals hidden dimensions, I create work that helps people see themselves and their world differently.”
“Josh is an exceptional artist rising in the ranks of Saskatchewan's multi + digital art canon. From single canvas, poster, and website design, to large mural and augmented reality installations, Josh can transform ideas into reality- the mundane, into eye-catching splendor.”
– from James McKnight’s nomination statement
Photo credit: SUM Theatre
Zoë James, multidisciplinary Artist
Regina
“I find music, theatre and dance to not only fuel me but be something I need to do.”
Zoë James is an emerging singer-songwriter making music to connect with hopeless romantics, daydreamers and overthinkers. She has been writing and playing solo for four years and recently formed a band, Zoë James and the Wistful Daydreams. Zoë experienced mentorship through her years as a dancer and teacher at FadaDance studio. In 2025, with a group of emerging artists, she created and performed in Rhythm Dust. Working on multiple theatre and performance projects has enabled her to further develop her stage skills. Zoë is excited to broaden her artistic knowledge and community connections in her work through Creative City Centre.
What fuels Zoë: “I find music, theatre and dance to not only fuel me but be something I need to do. Getting to share that moment of true connection, whether it be with an audience member or a collaborator (dancer or musician), is so very fulfilling for me. I know it is what I must continue to do for as long as I can.”
“James, 21, is a talented and inspiring musician and dancer. She has danced with Fada Dance and created music with her family since early childhood. She heads up a band called Zoë James and the Wistful Daydreams. She also taught dancers of all ages at Fada Dance and works at the Creative City Centre.”
– from Stacey Fayant’s nomination statement
Established Artists and Arts Leaders
Photo courtesy of the artist.
Lisa Birke, Associate Professor of Digital and Extended Practice, School for the Arts, University of Saskatchewan; independent video artist
Saskatoon
“... [art] makes visible our sometimes extraordinary, often mundane, and always individual experiences as humans.”
Lisa Birke is an artist and university arts educator situated in the liminal space between the real and the virtual. Through over 100 international screenings, she has been working to break the flat frame of the screen and free the stories trapped therein. She loves seeing young artists come into their own and carry on the flame of creative inspiration. Recently, she has been spotted basking in the golden hour dressed to the nines in a good, thrifted floral pattern. Passionate about community-engaged work, she hopes to fuel collaboration to forward diverse perspectives and technologies to democratize public art space.
What fuels Lisa: “Art is the most important thing there is. It makes visible our sometimes extraordinary, often mundane, and always individual experiences as humans. It keeps society accountable and the world in check. It records our collective stories reflecting on the past and envisioning what is still possible.”
“Lisa Birke is an artist and an associate professor at the U of S, but far more important than that, she is an inspiration. Lisa consistently balances an impressive creative output with an unbelievably personal pedagogical methodology. Lisa is what every artist-educator should strive to be.”
– from Jesse Fulcher Gagnon’s nomination statement
Photo courtesy of the artist.
Traci Lynne Foster, artist, Founder & Director of Listen to Dis’ Community and Art
Regina
“What fuels me as an artist is inhabiting creation as a form of care: The soft sane experience of sensation and all things creative.”
Traci Foster is an artist, body worker and theatre maker who explores and develops work with a focus on where awareness, intuition and action intersect in the (anomalous) body. She works with creation as care and unapologetically seeks pleasure in all aspects of life, including art-making. Her trauma-informed approach to facilitation was cultivated through her journey to find her voice and right to be in her body with pleasure and ease. Traci was Canada’s first certified Fitzmaurice Voicework™ instructor (2006) and is among the country’s leading practitioners. The heart of her work lies within the space where compassion meets creativity.
What fuels Traci: “What fuels me as an artist is inhabiting creation as a form of care: The soft sane experience of sensation and all things creative. Connection and its ultimate healing power. And how art intersects with love and acts as a catalyzing community force.”
“Traci Foster is a visionary arts leader whose artistry, mentorship, and innovative programs have advanced the arts in Saskatchewan, engaging learners, inspiring artists, and transforming communities through Listen to Dis’ accessible and inclusive work.”
– from Deb Nyczai’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Tenille Campbell of Sweetmoon Photography
Cheryl L’Hirondelle, interdisciplinary artist
Saskatoon
“We are all part of an environment, and an ecology – regardless of the field, discipline, community or location.”
Cheryl L’Hirondelle (Cree/Halfbreed; German/Polish) is an interdisciplinary artist and singer-songwriter whose roots are from Treaty 6 - Papaschase FN / amiskwaciy wāskahikan and Kikino Metis Settlement. Her work investigates the dynamism of nēhiyaw itapisinowin in contemporary time-place to create immersive environments and participatory engagement toward radical inclusion and decolonization. As a songwriter, her compositions focus on nēhiyawēwin and Indigenous sound shapes, contemporary song forms and narrative songwriting methodologies toward survivance. L’Hirondelle has received several awards, including the ImagineNATIVE New Media Awards (2005, 2006), Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards (2006, 2007) and the Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Art (2021).
What fuels Cheryl: “We are all part of an environment, and an ecology – regardless of the field, discipline, community or location. Within an interconnected environment no one being or element is more important than another, and it is balance, sharing gifts and resources and communication that is essential to sustaining life. Even the tall trees know that their roots grow strong because of the job the wildflowers and grasses do to bind the earth.”
“Cheryl’s multi-sensory art projects serve to highlight and revitalize Indigenous worldview and language through unique community engagement approaches. She is also a gifted arts mentor.”
– from Diana Chabros’ nomination statement
Photo Credit: Emma Anderson
Judy McNaughton, Northern Artistic Director, Common Weal Community Arts
Prince Albert
“... bring art opportunities to underserved, rural and remote communities were once rural kids with little or no access to arts opportunities ...”
Judy McNaughton is a cultural animateur and visual artist living in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Throughout her career, she has been socially motivated, manifesting in cultural activism and socially-engaged projects that strive to enrich our cultural ecosystem while highlighting the strengths and beauty that already exist. Judy is Northern Artistic Director with Common Weal Community Arts. She received a BFA from the University of Regina and an MFA from Emily Carr University of Art and Design.
What fuels Judy: “Many of us who work to bring art opportunities to underserved, rural and remote communities were once rural kids with little or no access to arts opportunities, and understand how important each and every professional art experience is in young lives. I want my energy to go back into my home province, to nurture and contribute to a rich arts ecosystem that can reach as many families and communities as possible.”
“In her role as Northern Artistic Director for Common Weal Community Arts, a calling she has impeccably animated since 2004, she advocates for inclusivity, community-and-social-engagement and cultural activism for the northern part of the province, plus she's a trusted consultant for her PA community.”
– from Cheryl L’Hirondelle’s nomination statement
Organizations, Festivals and Collectives
Photo courtesy of the organization.
Artesian
Non-Profit Charitable Arts Hub
Regina
“Beauty will save the world.”
Artesian Performing Arts is a not-for-profit charitable arts organization dedicated to fostering a diverse and connected community through access to a unique, inclusive and supportive event space. We bring community experiences to life by elevating artists and arts organizations through collaboration, hosting events that serve our community and partners and offering an intimate, engaging patron experience. Committed to understanding and strengthening our social impact, we strive to meet evolving community needs. As the leaseholder and operator of the Artesian venue, we support artists, organizations and the broader public in a wheelchair-accessible, all-ages space with zero tolerance for hate, harassment or discrimination.
What fuels The Artesian: "Beauty will save the world.” – Dostoevsky
“The Artesian is just coming up to their 10th anniversary and this award would be deserving of their efforts. The organization showcases emerging musicians, poets, visual artists and more. It's a gathering space for all and we are fortunate to have this venue in our little city.”
– from Cathy Uhersky’s nomination statement
Spectacle Kizaba. Photo Credit: Hannah Alex Photography
Conseil culturel fransaskois
Francophone Cultural Council
Regina
“ … culture creates opportunities, it enriches lives, and through shared experience passes on our connection to one another.”
Conseil culturel fransaskois was established in 1974 by francophone community groups as the Commission culturelle de la Saskatchewan. In 2000, its name was officially changed to Conseil culturel fransaskois (CCF), marking its role as the voice of the Fransaskois cultural community and a catalyst for artists’ growth. Through its programming, the CCF represents and supports francophone artists, cultural organizations, and French-language schools. We promote Fransaskois arts and culture provincially and nationally. We foster strategic partnerships and work to ensure that Saskatchewan francophones can express themselves and share their culture, enlivening Saskatchewan’s collective community expression.
What fuels CCF: “For over 50 years, the Conseil culturel fransaskois has been fueled by the collective energy of Fransaskois artists, communities and partners who believe that culture creates opportunities, it enriches lives, and through shared experience passes on our connection to one another.” – Dany Rousseau, Executive Director
“The CCF is the foundation and backbone of the Franco-Saskatchewan arts community. They have supported countless artists from all disciplines (including yours truly). I can't imagine what the Francophone arts community would be like without the CCF. They have proven to be irreplaceable.”
– from Simon Garez’s nomination statement
Photo Credit: Isaac Morales Vives
Latinos en Regina Association
Non-Profit Organization
Regina
“ ... everyone on earth has a special talent to share with the world.”
Latinos en Regina Association was initiated as a Facebook group in 2015. It became a legal nonprofit organization in August 2020. The association organizes events throughout the year, such as the Latino Pavilion as part of Mosaic, a festival of cultures; Happy Hearts Festival, which supports emerging musicians, Multicultural Musical Fusion, a reconciliation play that supports artists in different fields, such as dancers, musicians, writers, painters and the Latin Oscars & New Year Celebration, a multicultural event to celebrate New Year's Eve. Latinos en Regina Association's biggest project is to build the first Latino Community Center in Saskatchewan.
What fuels Latinos en Regina Association: “Latinos en Regina Association firmly believes that everyone on earth has a special talent to share with the world. Our inspiration comes from our roots and the desire for our current and newer generations to learn about their ancestors' culture and experience it through art. We'd like our children to feel proud of where they come from and leave a legacy of tolerance, resilience, respect and love to humankind.”
“The organization supports "Huellas Latinas" dancing group with free lessons, outfits and venue to practice, and supports emerging and established musicians, Mosaic's Latino pavilion with over 10,000 visitors, a Reconciliation "Fusion" play that promotes understanding and bonding with the Indigenous community.”
– from Allan Vance’s nomination statement
Photo courtesy of the organization.
Latin Summer Festival
Cultural Organization
Regina
“ We are fueled by the power of culture to connect communities and to create meaningful platforms ... ”
LATAM.CA LATINO CULTURAL HERITAGE PROJECTS INC. is a multidisciplinary cultural organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Latin American heritage in Saskatchewan. Through initiatives such as the Latin Summer Festival, the organization creates platforms for artists, cultural groups and creative entrepreneurs to showcase their work while fostering inclusion and cross-cultural dialogue. In September 2026, the Latin Summer Festival celebrates its 5th consecutive edition, continuing to strengthen the province’s artistic landscape by bringing diverse communities together to celebrate music, dance, visual arts and cultural identity in Canada.
What fuels LATAM.CA: “We are fueled by the power of culture to connect communities and to create meaningful platforms where artists can share their voices, celebrate their heritage and strengthen cultural belonging across Saskatchewan.”
“The Latin Summer Festival celebrates Latin American heritage while promoting inclusion and cultural connection in Saskatchewan. Approaching its 5th consecutive year in 2026, it has become a meaningful space that brings diverse communities together to celebrate culture and belonging in Canada.”
– from Victor Porras’ nomination statement
Photo Credit: Daniel Paquet
Listen to Dis’ Community and Art
Disability Arts and Culture Organization
Regina
“ … we are fueled by the power of disability art, culture, and justice to build connection, challenge ableism ...”
Listen to Dis' Community and Art is Saskatchewan's first and only disability-led, disability arts and culture organization. Through art, advocacy, and education, we build communities of open access in which disabled people can, at last, claim full agency over their voice and bring their fullest expression into the world. Through facilitated dialogue and inclusive art practice and performance, we weave new realities for our members and the broader community – shifting how people perceive disability and fostering understanding and appreciation for crip art, mad art and disability culture. Cultivating Art, Access, and Agency across Saskatchewan.
What fuels Listen to Dis’ Community and Art: “At Listen to Dis’ Community and Art we are fueled by the power of disability art, culture, and justice to build connection, challenge ableism, and create spaces where artists and audiences feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Our work is rooted in community, creativity, artistry, and the belief that art and access is transformational for everyone. Witnessing people come together to explore new ways of expressing and developing skills is very rewarding.”
“Listen to Dis’ Community and Art Organization is a disability-led arts leader advancing disability culture in Saskatchewan through professional artistic creation, touring, and education that challenges ableism and strengthens the arts sector for artists and communities alike.”
– from Mark Claxton’s nomination statement