Natural science illustrator Emily Damstra was awarded the 2017 Jane Graham Memorial Award from the Guelph Arts Council.
Damstra is a full-time freelance illustrator who exhibits regularly and produces natural science illustrations for publications, interpretive signs, and websites, as well as coin designs for the Royal Canadian Mint.
With her affinity for details, delight in colour, desire for scientific accuracy, and propensity for research about her subjects, she views her art as a way of learning, both for herself and for viewers of her artwork.
Damstra submitted her application as a request for assistance to attend the 2018 Conference of the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators in Washington, D.C., in July.
This international conference will offer workshops, demonstrations, presentations, a juried exhibition and portfolio-sharing opportunities that will allow her to enhance her skills in specific techniques and to network and gain inspiration and insights from others in her field.
Jury impressed
The jury for this year’s award was impressed with Damstra’s well-written and persuasive application, and applauded her for her practicality and clarity on setting professional goals to take her work to the next level.
For more information about the Jane Graham Memorial Award program and Guelph Arts Council, visit guelpharts.ca, phone 519-836-3280, email administration@guelpharts.ca, or drop by 10C Shared Space, 42 Carden Street in Guelph.
For more information about Damstra visit her website at emilydamstra.com.
