The Thames Art Gallery has announced the winners of six awards presented as part of the Here I Am Student Exhibition, now on display from April 17 to July 5, 2026.
Awards were presented during an opening reception and ceremony held April 17, recognizing outstanding young artists from across Chatham-Kent. The honours included three People’s Choice Awards sponsored by Salus Mutual Insurance Company, two Awards of Excellence sponsored by The Andersons, and a graduating scholarship sponsored by Cathy Van Raay-Myers for a student pursuing post-secondary studies in the arts.
Elise Donais, a Grade 12 student at Chatham-Kent Secondary School, received three awards, including a People’s Choice Award, an Award of Excellence and the graduating scholarship. Donais is set to continue her studies in Toronto in an interior design program.
Vanessa Pisquem, a Grade 12 student at Ursuline College Chatham Catholic Secondary School, received both an Award of Excellence and a People’s Choice Award.
Isabella Plourde, also a Grade 12 student at Chatham-Kent Secondary School, received a People’s Choice Award.
In a release, the municipality extended congratulations to the recipients and all students featured in the exhibition, noting the calibre of artwork on display reflects the creativity and vision of young artists across the community.
The exhibition continues at the gallery, located inside the Chatham Cultural Centre, with admission by donation. More information is available online through the gallery and municipal websites, as well as on social media.
