Artists Holly Ward and Kevin Schmidt (L) and Yan Wu (photos by Jennifer Latour (L) and Laura Findlay)
Visual studies alumni recognized by Creative City Network of Canada
Published: January 15, 2026
A public art project by artists Holly Ward and Kevin Schmidt has received the Sustainability Award for public art from the Creative City Network of Canada (CCNC).
Schmidt graduated from the master of visual studies in studio art in the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design in 2022, while the project was curated by Yan Wu, who earned her master of visual studies in curatorial studies in 2015 and is currently a PhD student at the Daniels Faculty.
The award-winning project, Lost and Found, was created in collaboration with more than 30 local musicians and community organizations.
CCNC supports the advancement of cultural policy, planning and practice at the municipal level. Each year, its Impact Awards recognize Canadian municipalities for exceptional contributions to cultural programming.
“Kevin’s artistic achievement, together with Yan’s curatorial leadership, highlights how our graduate students are shaping inclusive and sustainable artistic practices,” said Gareth Long, assistant professor, teaching stream and visual studies program director.
“Their work on Lost and Found is a powerful example of art’s ability to connect people. On behalf of the Daniels Faculty, we congratulate them both on their recognition.”
