Victoria artist and former Camosun College Visual Arts student Erin Berry has won the 2026 Winifred Shantz award for ceramics, a prestigious national award that recognizes excellence among emerging ceramic artists in Canada.
The award is presented by the Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery, and includes $10,000 to support her work at a pivotal stage in her career. It is the only national award dedicated specifically to emerging ceramics artists in Canada.
Her entry, titled Hyperprocess, was praised by the judges as being ambitious and thought-provoking.
“It’s an amazing honour to receive this recognition,” said Erin.
“My time at Camosun helped me shape the foundation of my practice, and it means a lot to be able to continue developing my work as part of Victoria’s arts community, while inspiring future generations of artists.”
Nancy Yakimoski, department chair and instructor in Visual Arts, said that Erin’s exceptional achievement reflects her commitment to her artistic practice and her bold and ongoing exploration of ceramics.
“Erin’s work demonstrates a thoughtful and distinctive artistic voice, and we’re thrilled to see her recognized on a national stage,” said Yakimoski.
“We look forward to watching her make significant contributions to ceramics in Canada and beyond.”
Erin’s work will be featured in the Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery this summer in the Emergence exhibition in Ontario. The exhibit will open on May 28th.
Erin is a graduate of the Visual Arts program at Camosun and is an occasional substitute instructor in the department.
