VANCOUVER - Internationally renowned jeweler Toni Cavelti and pioneering textile artist Joanna Staniszkis were named today by Premier Gordon Campbell and Keith Mitchell, chair of the BC Achievement Foundation, as recipients of the BC Creative Achievement Awards of Distinction.

"These artists have had a significant influence in the design world throughout the course of their careers," said Campbell, director of the Foundation. "British Columbians are immensely proud of the contribution that each of these artists has made to the artistic and cultural legacy of our province."

"We are so pleased to celebrate the skill and passion of these talented designers throughout their extensive bodies of work," added Mitchell. "Their accomplishments are truly deserving of this recognition."

Since arriving in Vancouver from Switzerland more than 50 years ago, Toni Cavelti has been creating exquisite works of jewelry. Cavelti is praised for his compelling modern designs and the dynamism captured in his pieces. Cavelti has received international acclaim for his work, earning a series of Diamonds International Awards and designing a necklace and earrings for H.M. Queen Elizabeth.

Joanna Staniszkis uses natural materials in her textile art in unconventional and innovative ways. She draws on cultural references and stories to create expressive tapestries, couture pieces, and woven and sculptural works. Her recent exhibit, The Linen Project, received widespread acclaim for her blends of flax cloth and linen with images of cloth and fibers. Staniszkis is now immersed in The Silk Project, a gallery of one-of-a-kind, limited edition artwear and accessories. Staniszkis has taught textile design at UBC since 1969 and was elected to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts in 1980.

The BC Creative Achievement Awards of Distinction will be presented in conjunction with the third annual BC Creative Achievement Awards at a special event hosted by the BC Achievement Foundation on June 4, 2007 at The Studios at Shaw Tower.

The British Columbia Achievement Foundation is an independent foundation established and endowed by the Province. The Creative Achievement Awards are one of five initiatives of the foundation. The others are the BC Community Achievement Awards recognizing those who have made a significant contribution to their community; the BC Creative Achievement Award for Aboriginal Art; the BC Award for Canadian Non-Fiction, recognizing literary excellence in literary non fiction; and Time to Read: The BC Achievement Foundation Award for Early Literacy.