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NSCAD students help turn individual journeys into original art

NSCAD University students have partnered with youth from the Halifax newcomer community to present Embed and Embody, a collection of work based on individual journeys and expressed through unique fashion and jewellery.
Embed and Embody is the product of workshops that were led by NSCAD student facilitators, in partnership with newcomers from Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS). The finished products will be on display at NSCAD’s Anna Leonowens Gallery during Nocturne 2019.

Embed and Embody is a project of NSCAD’s Art Factory, in collaboration with Nosiemakers and Nocturne.

“For 11 weeks, 10 youth from the Halifax newcomer community worked with professional artists and NSCAD students in an investigation of self-expression through material exploration,” said Catherine Allen, Manager, Extended Studies, NSCAD University.

“Each week the workshops focused on new techniques, including mould making and carving. They also experimented with surface design using spray paint, embroidery and screen printing,” added Leesa Hamilton, NSCAD faculty member and project coordinator.

ISANS works with newcomers to Canada to help them make connections and build a future in their new home. Teaming up with NSCAD student facilitators to produce artwork that represents their personal journeys has gone a long way toward helping them feel comfortable in Nova Scotia.

“Empowering youth to find creative ways to share their story and connect with their new communities is important in their settlement and integration process,” said Jennifer Watts, Chief Executive Officer, ISANS. “Art is a common language that speaks to everyone. This project provided a wonderful opportunity for youth to share their stories in an exciting and creative way.”

Embed and Embody is part of Nocturne 2019, further adding to the excitement around the project. Nocturne: Art at Night is a fall festival that brings art and energy to the streets of Halifax between 6 p.m. and midnight, October 16-19. The event is free to attend, and showcases and celebrates the visual arts scene in Nova Scotia.

Embed and Embody begins at 6 pm, Saturday, October 19 at the Anna Leonowens Gallery on Granville Street, Halifax. In addition to the art display, there will also be hands-on art-making opportunities for those in attendance.

The NSCAD Art Factory and Embed and Embody exhibition are funded in large part by the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage through the Culture Innovation Fund.