Joyce Zemans, already known in the York community as a distinguished art historian, curator, essayist and teacher, has received a new honour: She was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada by Governor General Adrienne Clarkson as of October 2002. The announcement was made late last week.
Former dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Zemans specializes in 19th-and 20th-century Canadian art. The Order of Canada citation said, “She has been tireless in her efforts to cast light on the often-overlooked artistic contributions of women during this period. Curator of several important touring exhibits, she has served as an advisor to the acquisition committees.
“Her administrative leadership and resolve became evident during her tenure as a director of the Canada Council for the Arts, where she deftly guided it through a period of economic restraint. University Professor at [York’s] Schulich School of Business, she continues to shape our national cultural landscape.”
The Order of Canada was established in 1967 to recognize outstanding achievement and service in various fields of human endeavour. It is our country”s highest honour for lifetime achievement.