Portfolio Collective

The Portfolio Prize is thrilled to announce its first ever exhibition in conjunction with Benjamin Lumb Art House (BLAH) opening on May 18, 2024 at 7pm at 848 E. Hastings. This event marks the culmination of over two decades of fostering creativity and nurturing talent within the artistic community.

Founded over 20 years ago, the Portfolio Prize has remained a beacon of support for emerging artists in British Columbia. The organization creates portfolios of etchings by renowned artists, with the proceeds from sales directly benefiting cash prizes for up-and-coming talents, which embodies the organizations mandate of "Artists for Artists," where established artists directly contribute to the career of future generations of artists.

"It's important to note that every individual involved volunteers their time and work” notes board member Grossmann.

The portfolios themselves are extremely unique - they consist of etchings by some of the most sought after artists in Canada, the price makes the portfolios accessible to the general public, collectors and institutions alike.

Despite operating under the radar since its inception, the Portfolio Prize has quietly made a profound impact on the local art scene. Sales, primarily driven by word of mouth, have allowed the organization to maintain itself while supporting emerging artists in their pursuit of artistic excellence. Now in its third edition, the Portfolio Prize endeavors to amplify awareness and establish a solid foundation for future endeavors.

The exhibition will showcase a diverse array of works, featuring pieces from its prize recipients : Colleen Brown, Derya Akay, Del Hillier, Manuel Axel Strain, Durrah Alsaif, Bracken Hanuse Corlett, Rebecca Bair and Gabi Dao, alongside works from its celebrated guest contributors: Rebecca Belmore, Dana Claxton, Vikky Alexander and its founding members, Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun, Attila Richard Lukacs, Derek Root, Douglas Coupland, Angela Grossmann and Graham Gillmore.

"We firmly believe that artists can provide invaluable support for one another," expressed Grossmann. "Especially in these challenging times where art and artists face dwindling support, the Portfolio Prize serves as a crucial platform."

With no overarching theme, the exhibition celebrates the limitless creativity and freedom of expression of artists, unhindered by constraints or censorship. The multi-generational exhibit will showcase the rich tapestry of talent from within the arts community.

The Portfolio Prize extends its gratitude to all guest artists, jurors, collectors and all who have contributed to the success of this initiative. "We thank you all for being part of this journey," remarked Attila Lukacs. "Your involvement has been instrumental in shaping the Portfolio Prize.”

The exhibition promises to be a memorable event, with an opening night filled with celebration.

The exhibition will run from May 18 – June 15, 2024

Gallery hours are Wednesday - Saturday 12-5pm

85/5 – PORTFOLIO PRIZE

- reinventing mentorship-

The 85/5 Portfolio Prize is happy to announce its return for a second year to Art Toronto, October 27-30 2022. This year the 85/5 Portfolio Prize is offering original works generously donated by all six of its directors: Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun, Attila Richard Lukacs, Douglas Coupland, Derek Root, Graham Gillmore and Angela Grossmann.

In keeping with the Foundation’s mandate of supporting emerging artists, proceeds from our Art Toronto sales will support future generations of art makers, in the form of awards, mentorship and exhibitions.

The 85/5 Foundation was formed in the year 2000 by Douglas Coupland, Graham Gillmore, Angela Grossmann, Attila Richard Lukacs, and Derek Root who all graduated from Emily Carr University in 1985. Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun joined the board in 2015. The group has a long history of over three decades, of showing together (Futura Bold, Young Romantics, Basement Show , Vancouver School, Portfolio Prize).

In 2006, Douglas Coupland, Attila Lukacs, Angela Grossmann, Graham Gillmore, and Derek Root collaborated on a large interactive installation titled Vancouver School. The exhibition, commissioned by Artists for Kids, North Vancouver, ran for two months. Proceeds from the event and a limited edition print went to help raise funds for Artists for Kids.

In the summer of 2000, Douglas Coupland, Graham Gillmore, Angela Grossmann, Attila Richard Lukacs, and Derek Root created a portfolio of copperplate etchings to raise funds for scholarships to deserving students at the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design. The edition of 25 is printed on 250 gram Rives BFK paper. The image size is 11 5/8 by 8 6/8, on a 25 1/2 by 19 1/2 sheet. This edition was printed by master printer Martin Borden at ECIAD.