The Virginia and Myrtle Cooper Award in Costume Design was established in 2006 by the late Dr. Virginia S. Cooper of Toronto. An annual award meant to be given “for the love of creation,” it is intended to enrich the careers of professional mid-career Canadian costume designers in Ontario through research and travel.

Dr. Cooper had a keen interest in the performing arts, particularly in costume design, and served as a director of the Tarragon Theatre. She was a charter member of the Arts and Letters Club of Toronto and active in its activities.

Award:  $25,000

Current Recipient
2023    Vanessa Imeson

Past Recipients
2022    Anna Treusch
2021    Ming Wong
2020    Sean Mulcahy
2019    Joanna Yu
2018    Gillian Gallow
2017    Tamara Marie Kucheran
2016    Camellia Koo
2015    Robin Fisher
2014    Anne Dixon
2013    Julie Fox
2012    Dana Osborne
2011     Lea Carlson
2010    Carolyn M. Smith
2009   Charlotte Dean
2008   Michael Gianfrancesco
2007   Judith Bowden

News Releases
Vanessa Imeson Awarded the 2023 Virginia and Myrtle Cooper Award in Costume Design   July 11, 2023