I got an email a couple of weeks ago asking if I could take a phone meeting from someone at Heinz. I thought that they were going to ask me to perform, or to offer an artwork towards a gift, or______. That’s not what happened. . The person on the phone began speaking about the Heinz awards. I said that I was familiar. Then the person congratulated me on being one of the winners of the 27th annual Heinz Awards. I was in my studio. It was a hot day. I was wearing the same work shorts that I’d been wearing off and on for 5 or 6 months. I was feeling the crush of time and creative desire into the deadline for my September show. And in my memory the human on the phone told me that I’d won the Heinz award for 2027. I remember thinking: “ok... that’s a long ways away.” I had to ask them to repeat themselves. . Something in me got really soft and quiet. I wanted to sit down but I don’t have many places to sit in my studio. I had a few soft tears on my face and I asked myself, “how did this happen?” It was a sure and thorough surprise. I am grateful. I am humbled. I am honored. Thank you. . Congratulations to all of the winners! To Cauleen Smith, who I so look up to, and to everyone doing their work and making a mark. You are all deserving and I celebrate you in your triumph. . Much love, vanessa. #theheinzawards #congratulations