Literary Arts - Prizes

When authors are interviewed, they are often asked why they have chosen their particular field. Although many writers are quick to point out that their craft is suited only to the truly devoted, inevitably, they explain their love of literature and the written word, and perhaps the desire to express a certain voice, driving them to continue despite instability.

In Alberta, a number of awards exist to encourage, support and financially assist writers in a market that might seem daunting. The following section illustrates a representative selection of the awards and prizes offered in Alberta.

Known for its desire to offer support, the Writers Guild of Alberta (WGA) provides for the literary community in a number of ways. The WGA disseminates information to writers, represents the literary community to various levels of government, and recognizes excellent writing efforts through its awards programs. Regardless of whether you describe the WGA as a ‘community' or a ‘group' of writers, it is undoubtedly a source of support, encouragement and information for the literary arena. Over the years, the WGA has sponsored and offered a multitude of awards to promote Albertan literature.