Submissions are now being accepted for one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most prestigious arts and cultural recognition initiatives – the Arts and Letters Awards Program.

Now in its 74th year, the Arts and Letters Awards Program encourages the creation of new works of art by both professional and non-professional artists of all ages in Newfoundland and Labrador. This awards program provides an opportunity to submit works for adjudication at an annual competition and recognizes excellence through the awarding of monetary prizes and the exhibition of meritorious entries, where appropriate and feasible. Original creative works in literature, music, and visual art, are eligible.

In addition to the regular program, this year’s Arts and Letters Awards Program includes a one-time, multi-disciplinary HERSTORY Empowers category. Artists are invited to create and submit works that reflect on the years of campaigning by suffragists, who worked tirelessly to make their voices heard and their votes count. This coincides with Newfoundland and Labrador’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of women achieving the right to vote and hold public office.

The submission deadline is November 19, 2025.

Applications and further information on the program can be found here.

Quotes
“For 74 years, the Arts and Letters Awards Program has celebrated the creativity and skill of our established and emerging artists. This cherished cultural program inspires creative expression and continues to advance our culture. As we reflect on the accomplishments of women in Newfoundland and Labrador, I anticipate artists will show much enthusiasm and creativity in honouring women gaining the right to vote and hold public office.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Including a category in this year’s Arts and Letters Awards Program that commemorates the 100th anniversary of women achieving the right to vote and hold public office not only marks a pivotal moment in our province’s history, but also reminds us of the courage, determination, and vision of those who advocated for equality. By inviting artists and writers to reflect on this legacy, we celebrate how far we have come, while inspiring new generations to continue shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all.”
Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Learn more
Arts and Letters Awards Program

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