The City of Charlottetown and the Charlottetown Arts Advisory Board are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Arts and Culture Awards. Held biennially, the awards recognize individuals and organizations whose creativity, leadership, and dedication contribute to Charlottetown’s cultural life.
This year’s award recipients were recognized during a ceremony on March 11, 2026, at The Arts Guild.
“The culture and creativity our artists share bring so much warmth and character to Charlottetown,” said Mayor Philip Brown. “Their work enriches life for residents and leaves a lasting impression on visitors. We’re grateful for the imagination, spirit, and diversity they contribute to our community. Congratulations to all of this year’s award winners and nominees!”
Award recipients receive a $2,000 cash prize and a unique hand-crafted award created by PEI-based ceramic artist Jamilynn Wilson.
The recipients of the 2026 Arts and Culture awards are:
•
Kris Williams Dart – Emerging Artist Award
Kris is a newly discovered playwright whose fast-rising journey since a “moment of clarity” in 2023 has led to festival selections, a PARC residency, a Fringe Festival award, and the creation of two plays and a Bell Fibe mini-series; his work is inspired by real stories and topical, challenging, and boundary-pushing themes.
•
Millefiore Clarkes – Artistic Excellence Award
Millefiore is an award-winning PEI filmmaker whose work with One Thousand Flowers Productions—and four acclaimed National Film Board documentaries—has earned national recognition for her storytelling and community-minded dedication to the craft.
•
PEI Crafts Council – Champion of the Arts Award
The PEI Crafts Council is a long-standing champion of and hub for the Island handcraft sector. Since 1965, the PEICC has supported and promoted high-quality handcraft through its gallery, exhibitions, professional development programs, and initiatives such as the Arts and Heritage Trail, the Craft Trade Show, and the annual Christmas Craft Fair.
•
Rob Oakie – Lifetime Achievement Award
For over 18 years, Rob Oakie has been a foundational force in the growth, sustainability, and professionalization of Island music. As the founding Executive Director of Music PEI, Rob championed Island artists at home and on international stages, tirelessly advocating for music as an economic driver, a cultural asset, and a vital art form. As he retires from Music PEI, Rob leaves a profound, far-reaching legacy.
•
Gordon Cobb – Late Great Award
Beloved actor, writer, and storyteller Gordon Cobb (1964-2025) was recognized at the Arts and Culture Awards ceremony by his close friends and loved ones, who read his poems in his honour.
Award recipients were chosen by an independent selection panel, chaired by a member of the Arts Advisory Board and composed of community representatives, including at least one past award recipient.
A list of previous winners is available at
charlottetown.ca/artsawards.