Day: June 3, 2026

Applied Art + Design program’s most recent Award of Distinction recipient, Russell Hackney, leads a life shaped by material, process, and an enduring commitment to craft. His art philosophy is grounded in patience, precision, and the belief that making something beautiful matters.

Russell Hackney, based on Bowen Island, is a third-generation ceramic artist whose work reflects more than four decades of refinement in porcelain. Trained in Stoke-on-Trent, England, the historic centre of ceramic production, his early years were immersed in a culture where making was both livelihood and legacy. Entering the studio at a young age and apprenticing under his father laid the technical foundation that continues to inform his work today.

Russell has spoken candidly about his early desire to push against tradition and to find his own direction within an industry defined by convention. That tension between heritage and innovation continues to shape his practice. His embossed porcelain works, created through slip-casting and relief modelling, are deeply rooted in historical technique while remaining distinctly contemporary in expression.

Russell draws inspiration from the natural environment and the rhythms of daily life. Walks through the forest, what he describes as a “thought corridor,” become a space for reflection where ideas begin to take form. These moments of contemplation often translate into intricate, meditative works that invite viewers to slow down and look closely.

His process is as thoughtful as it is technical. From initial sketches to the careful modelling of plaster, Russell describes the act of making as a kind of stillness, a focused and meditative state. It is here, in the quiet repetition of form and detail, that his work takes shape.

At the same time, his practice engages directly with the contemporary world. By elevating ordinary figures through symbolic forms such as halos, he explores how art can hold space for meaning in a rapidly changing technological landscape. It is a reminder that applied art and design are not only functional, but deeply expressive.

Beyond his own studio practice, Russell’s impact extends into the wider artistic community. As both a maker and mentor, he has introduced many artists across British Columbia to the possibilities of slip-casting and mould-making, helping to strengthen and sustain the province’s clay and design communities.

Receiving the Award of Distinction marks an important moment in a long and dedicated career. In the film produced by BC Achievement in recognition of his work, Russell reflects on the recognition with humility, sharing that it has given him renewed motivation to continue making and to pursue the next idea.

His message to emerging artists is simple and lasting. “Make the work you feel compelled to make. Value the process. Pursue beauty, not as an endpoint, but as a way of thinking and working.”

In celebrating Russell Hackney, BC Achievement honours a master of his craft and approach to art that is deeply human.

There is something uniquely uplifting about spending an afternoon surrounded by people who have dedicated their lives to helping others.

That feeling was on full display at Government House in Victoria on May 6 as BC Achievement Foundation welcomed recipients, families, friends, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate the 2026 Community Award recipients. In the presence of His Honour Sergio Cocchia, we gathered to recognize 24 outstanding British Columbians whose leadership, generosity, and commitment are making a lasting difference in communities across the province.

From the moment guests arrived, there was a sense of anticipation and pride in the room. Recipients travelled from every corner of BC bringing with them stories of service, perseverance, innovation, and compassion. While their work spans a remarkable range of causes and communities, a common thread connected every person honoured that afternoon: a belief that stronger communities are built through service to others.

As each recipient crossed the stage to receive their recognition, the audience learned about lives devoted to creating opportunities, supporting neighbours, mentoring young people, preserving culture, advancing inclusion, and strengthening the social fabric of British Columbia.

One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony came from Mitchell Award of Distinction recipient Jacquelyn Cragg. In her remarks, she reflected on the profound influence of mentors who helped guide her through difficult circumstances following the loss of her father when she was a child. She spoke about the power of curiosity, community, and people who generously share their passions with others. Looking out at her fellow recipients, she observed that each of them represents the kind of community that helps others heal, grow, and believe in what is possible.

Her words captured something many of us felt throughout the ceremony.

Again and again, conversations returned to the people who make a difference quietly and consistently—the mentors, volunteers, advocates, coaches, teachers, and neighbours who show up for others without expecting recognition. It was a reminder that while the award celebrates individual achievement, it also celebrates the communities that nurture and support that work.

That sentiment echoes the spirit of past Community Award ceremonies. Previous Mitchell Award recipients have spoken about the importance of compassion, belonging, and collective action. Whether it was Valerie Jerome’s reflection on the “compassionate ones” who help others overcome barriers, or Marcus Mosely’s moving message about making a place for everyone at the table, the recurring theme is clear: meaningful change happens when people invest in one another.

In a world where headlines often focus on division and challenge, the Community Award recipients remind us that positive change begins locally, through acts of kindness, courage, and commitment that ripple outward to strengthen communities throughout British Columbia.

Congratulations to the 2026 Community Award recipients. Thank you for inspiring us, and for helping shine a light on what is possible when people choose to serve.

Missed the ceremony? The full recording is available to watch at bcachievement.com and on TELUS Optik TV Channel 707.