Matthew Trueman: voices in a cool wet darkness | Latcham Art Centre
January 04, 2023
Congratulations to MFA alum Matthew Trueman who will be featured in a solo exhibition at Latcham Art Centre from January 20 to March 4, 2023. In this exhibition, entitled "voices in a cool wet darkness", Matthew uses kinetic sculpture, video, sound and reclaimed natural materials to open up conversations about the environment from a more-than-human perspective. Given the recent governmental announcements about land development and the heightened concerns for Ontario’s Green Belt, this exhibition touches on environmental topics of local and national importance. Image credit: Matthew Trueman, still image from A Walk in the Woods in the Dark, 2022.
Christina Battle: the air we breathe | Gallery 44
January 04, 2023
Congratulations to PhD alum, Christina Battle whose solo exhibition "the air we breathe" is on view at Gallery 44 from January 6 – February 4, 2023. "the air we breathe" is an expanded single-channel experimental documentary. The work explores the complexities of air pollution, weaving together themes of environmental catastrophe, cultural and political strife, conspiracy and the various links between.
Public Artist Talk and Performance by Jessica Karuhanga | Queer City Cinema
December 16, 2022
Please join professor Jessica Karuhanga for a public artist talk and performance in the Digital Creativity Lab or via Zoom on Friday, January 13th at 7pm. Presented by Queer City Cinema this talk and performance is featured as part of "QALEIDOSCOPE Queer Film & Performance on Tour 2023" which features QTBIPOC films and performance that explore, question and play with identity to propose and investigate diverse ways of looking at sexuality, gender and race.
Sorority | Satellite Project Space
December 09, 2022
Kaede Kusano a fourth-year student in the Honours Specialization in Art History and Museum Studies program has curated "Sorority" a group exhibition at Satellite Project Space featuring artwork by Rain Fenek Bloodworth, Steph Dancer, Mariam Fahmy, Megan Goddard, Michael Highway, Reilly Knowles, Lily Li, Delaney Philip, Emma Mary Sked, and Isabella Springett. Image: Steph Dancer, When Stuffies Attack (detail).
Aki-Wayn-Zih: A Person as Worthy as the Earth, Wins 2022 Governor General's Award For Non-Fiction
December 09, 2022
Alumni Matthew Ryan Smith (PhD '12) served as editor of Ojibway author Eli Baxter's memoir Aki-Wayn-Zih: A Person as Worthy as the Earth, which was awarded the 2022 Governor General's award for nonfiction."Through spiritual teachings, historical accounts, and autobiographical anecdotes, Aki-wayn-zih offers a new form of storytelling from the Anishinaabay point of view."
Kelly Greene's artwork featured on PBS
PBS , November 24, 2022IAiR Kelly Greene's artwork was recently featured on PBS's Brief But Spectacular in a segment with Tia Kennedy, founder of Kiinew Kwe, a youth-led organization that offers "innovative solutions that empower and amplify diversity, equity, and inclusion."
Moving Histories: An International Symposium on Screened Histories
October 31, 2022
Christine Sprengler presented "Refracted Pasts: History on Film Beyond the Cinema in Caroline Monnet's Mobilize (2015) and former MA student, Avery Lafortune presented "Fantastic Histories: Understanding the Past Through Fantasy Film and Television" at Moving Histories: An International Symposium on Screened Histories, October 29-30, 2022. Both papers are forthcoming in the Routledge Companion to History on Film, 2023.
Barb Hobot: The Fugitive's Forge | Olga Korper Gallery
October 31, 2022
Congratulations to MFA '14 alum Barb Hobot whose solo exhibition "The Fugitive's Forge" opens at Olga Korper Gallery in Toronto on Saturday, November 19, 2022. Hobot's new work includes photo collages printed on paper, fabric, and aluminum. The works reference alchemical experimentation, excavated mountainous terrain, and fog-catching nets. Spanning early scientific discoveries and contemporary issues of mass environmental degradation, the show burns with both the allure and toxicity of metallurgy. Image credit: Alchemist’s Drinking Cup #11 (detail), 2022, digital collage on paper with copper leaf, 28” x 36.5”.
In Conversation with Brendan Fernandes | National Gallery of Canada
October 19, 2022
Join MFA alum and multidisciplinary artist Brendan Fernandes (MFA '05) in conversation with the National Gallery of Cananda's Senior Curator of Photographs, Andrea Kunard. Please note that this is a hybrid event. Attend onsite at the Gallery, or watch the live broadcast via Zoom. Registration required.
Review: Liza Eurich: pockets, postscripts, peonies
By
Kim Neudorf ,Peripheral Review , October 18, 2022
"Positioned like an offering at the entrance to artist Liza Eurich’s exhibition, a paper cone holds a gathering of peonies. However, on a closer look, the paper cone is a shirt sleeve with a buttoned-up cuff cast in pale-peach resin. There’s a muted, soft quality to the combination of violet-pink, dark green and pale pink colours in this bouquet. Combined with the cast sleeve, the impression is understated (perhaps this is a bouquet for a formal gathering) but with a dryly funny tone, as the sculpture performs its straightforward bouquet-ness with a knowing wink to the audience..."
Michael Windover (MA '05) | Ornamentum Lecture Series: Retailing Radio
October 11, 2022
Department of Visual Arts alum Michael Windover (MA '05) considers the role of the T. Eaton Company in promoting and fostering radio culture in Canada during the Ornamentum Lecture Series: Retailing Radio. He will look especially at radio catalogues produced by the retailer as visual evidence of how the new medium was imagined and sold to Canadian publics.
Creating Art Entrepreneurially with and in a Community
September 24, 2022
Alyana Hryclik of soft flirt and Reilly Knowles of Good Sport, both graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts program in the Department of Visual Arts at Western University, will sit down with Andres Garzon and Monica Joy of Good Sport to share their experiences as young artists in London, Ontario. Moderated by Visual Arts Professor Patrick Mahon. Guests may attend the panel discussion in person or join via Zoom. Registration is required.
Active Collaborations: Artistic Materials and Media
The Blackwood Gallery , September 15, 2022
Panel discussion with alumni Brad Isaacs (MFA '12), Dana Prieto, Sean Procyk, and Amanda White (Current Post Doc). Part of Nearshore Gatherings, an event series on environmental activism and stewardship. Register to attend on Eventbrite.
Colourful Coves: A Dyeing Workshop with BFA alum Reilly Knowles
September 14, 2022
Join us for this incredible opportunity to learn about natural dye plants in the Coves from fibre artist and BFA alumni Reilly Knowles. Reilly will lead the group to learn on the Land about ethical harvests, identifying dye plants, and the unique history of the Coves.
Tegan Moore: Residuum | La Galerie Nicolas Robert
September 10, 2022
Congratulations to alumna Tegan Moore (MFA '14) whose exhibition "Residuum" opened at La Galerie Nicolas Robert in Montreal on September 10, 2022.
Mohawk artist shares her dreams in Glenhyrst exhibit
By
Ally Penders ,Brant Beacon , September 08, 2022
"The main room at Glenhyrst Art Gallery has been transformed into a 20th century classroom, but the details and teachings within it come from the dreams of artist Kelly Greene... "
Niloufar Salimi: 75 Oriole Rd | Micheal Gibson Gallery
August 31, 2022
Congratulations to MFA alumna, Niloufar Salimi whose exhibition "75 Oriole Rd" opened in the middle gallery of Michael Gibson Gallery on August 31, 2022. Her exhibition runs through October 1, 2022.
Mike Pszczonak: On the Other Hand | Michael Gibson Gallery
August 31, 2022
Congratulations to MFA '14 alum, Mike Pszczonak as his second solo exhibition "On the Other Hand' is on view at Michael Gibson Gallery from August 31 through October 1, 2022.
Migration Stories Whispered in My Ear / Me Susurran Al Oído Historias de Migrantes Moysés Zuñiga Santiago | McIntosh Gallery
August 04, 2022
The exhibition "Migration Stories Whispered in My Ear / Me Susurran Al Oído Historias de Migrantes Moysés Zuñiga Santiago" is on view at the McIntosh Gallery from August 11 - September 10, 2022. The exhibition is based on SSHRC-funded research by Professor Sarah Bassnett and curated by PhD candidate Anahí González. Join us at the closing reception on Friday, September 9, 5 - 7pm.
Kelly Greene: In My Dreams | Glenhyrst Art Gallery
Akimbo , August 04, 2022
Congratulations to Kelly Greene, indigenous artist-in-residence and alumna whose solo exhibition "In My Dreams" is on view at Glenhyrst Art Gallery from July 30 - September 25, 2022. In this exhibition, Greene transforms a conventional 20th-century classroom in Canada into one that conveys the basic principles and teachings of the people of Six Nations. This exhibition was curated by Ph.D. '12 alumni, Matthew Ryan Smith.
Anahí González | AGO X RBC Emerging Artists Exchange
August 02, 2022
Congratulations to Ph.D. candidate and MFA '21 alum Anahí González who has been selected to participate in the AGO X RBC Emerging Artists Exchange. This initiative provides three emerging artists with a paid four-week digital mentorship to pursue a research project. Anahí will explore artworks in the AGO's Latin American contemporary collection which depict human labour. This project is the continuation of her research about labour representation in visual arts and her artistic contribution to the relationship between Latin America and Canada. She wants her findings to provoke reflections on the power systems that create labour inequalities in Latin America and to highlight the importance of Latin American collections in Canadian art institutions.
Kelly Greene: In my Dreams | Glenhyrst Gallery
July 30 - September 25, 2022 , July 30, 2022
Congratulations to IAiR Kelly Greene whose exhibition "In my Dreams" curated by alum Matthew Ryan Smith (PHD '12) opened at Glenhyrst Gallery on July 30, 2022. "In this exhibition, artist Kelly Greene transforms a conventional 20th century classroom in Canada to one that conveys basic principles and teachings of the people of Six Nations..."
Knotting, Netting, Connecting by Sharmistha Kar and Gabriella Solti | Good Sport Gallery
July 19, 2022
MFA graduates Sharmistha Kar (MFA'19) and Gabriella Solti (MFA '14), London-based artists, invite the public to join a community-engaged art project at Good Sport Gallery that explores one of the most ancient human technology, the knot.
Welcome Eeva Siivonen the Department of Visual Arts Media Technician
Department of Visual Arts , July 01, 2022The Department of Visual Arts is pleased to welcome Eeva Siivonen as the new Media Technician in Visual Arts. Eeva recently earned her PhD in Art and Visual Culture here at Western. She also holds MFAs in Video Art and Documentary Film Directing from Syracuse University (New York) and the ELO Film School, Aalto University (Helsinki) respectively. Eeva brings a great deal of professional experience as a Media Technician in addition to her academic and teaching experience at Western and abroad.
The Department of Visual Arts welcomes three full-time tenure-track faculty members
July 01, 2022
The Department of Visual Arts is pleased to announce that three full-time, tenure-track professors have joined the department as of July 1st, 2022. Please join us in welcoming Professor Jessica Karahunga (BFA '10 alum), Sheri Nault and Sohelia Esfahani (MFA'10 alum) whose 2-year limited-term contract has been converted to a tenure-track position.
"Plastic Heart" Receives Honourable Mention for the Outstanding Achievement: Exhibitions Award | Canadian Museums Association
CMA , July 01, 2022The exhibition "Plastic Heart" received an Honourable Mention for the Outstanding Achievement: Exhibitions Award from The Canadian Museums Association. "Plastic Heart" was curated by Professor Kirsty Robertson, Professor Kelly Wood, and alum Tegan Moore (MFA '14) of the Synthetic Collective and included artwork by Christina Battle (Ph.D. '20)
"Continuing Accountability" exhibition walk-through led by Kelly Greene
May 11, 2022
The Artlab Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition titled “Continuing Accountability” by current Indigenous Artist-In-Residence Kelly Greene. Presented in partnership with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives and the Department of Arts and Humanities, this exhibit brings together work completed by Greene over the course of her nearly thirty-year artistic career. Please join us Thursday, May 12 at 4PM in the Artlab Gallery for an exhibition walk-through led by Kelly Greene. This event is open to members of the public and the Western community – so bring your family and friends!
Expert Insight: Contemporary Muslim artists challenging ideas about fixed culture
Western News , April 29, 2022
Visual Arts professor Soheila Esfahani explains how ornamentation in Islamic art shows the movement and transformation of culture. Image: Cultured Pallets: SAIB”, acrylic on wooden shipping pallets (Courtesy Soheila Kolahdouz Esfahani)
Kelly Greene: Continuing Accountability | Artlab Gallery
April 28, 2022
The Artlab Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition titled “Continuing Accountability” by current Indigenous Artist-In-Residence Kelly Greene. Presented in partnership with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives and the Department of Arts and Humanities, this exhibit brings together work completed by Greene over the course of her nearly thirty year artistic career.
Exhibition Video: GardenShip & State | Museum London
Museum London , April 26, 2022
GardenShip & State curators Professor Patrick Mahon and Jeff Thomas tour through their exhibition "GardenShip and State" (Museum London, 2021). See twenty contemporary artists [including several Department of Visual Arts students and alumni] explore how to restore the planet through respecting differences, repairing divisions, and addressing injustices brought about by colonialism.
42x81 presents Michelle Wilson and Reilly Knowles
April 04, 2022
TAP Centre for Creativity and 42 x 81 presents PhD candidate Michelle Wilson and BFA '20 alum Reilly Knowles for a public presentation. The artists invite participants to bring their textile projects or pick up some of the supplied materials and stitch as they discuss their collaborative, intuitive textile work and their practices' relationships to water.
Rah Eleh: Celestial Throne featured in Personal Structures at the 59th Venice Biennale
March 29, 2022
Congratulations to MFA '18 alum Rah Eleh who will be presenting her project "Celestial Throne," which will make its world debut at the 59th Venice Biennale in the Personal Structures exhibition. This new work is a two-channel installation that will be presented in Palazzo Mora for the duration of the biennale.
Sasha Opeiko | #artLAB publication series <02>
March 28, 2022
The Artlab gallery is pleased to present the second edition of the #artLAB publication series titled, "Soluble Parts and the Mediated Depths of Posthuman Plasma" written by PhD student Sasha Opeiko in response to Eeva Siivonen's PhD exhibition "I left parts of myself everywhere". Text and publication design is undertaken by current Department of Visual Arts Students. Copies are available for free at the Artlab reception desk, or as a PDF online.
Soheila Esfahani: Been T[here] | Red Head Gallery
March 16, 2022
Professor Soheila Esfahani's presents new work in a solo exhibition titled "Been T[here]" at the Red Head Gallery, in Toronto. The exhibition runs March 16- April 2, 2022. Prof. Esfahani will be in attendance at the gallery April 2, 12-5 pm. Image: Soheila Esfahani, Study for There, Digital file, 2022
Rah Eleh: Aporia | A Space Gallery
March 16, 2022
Congratulations to alum, Rah Eleh (MFA '18) whose solo exhibition Aporia opened at A Space Gallery in Toronto on March 1, 2022. Join Rah Eleh for an artist talk and tour of the exhibition on Saturday, March 19 at noon. Gallery hours during the exhibition Tuesday to Friday, 11AM to 5PM and Saturday 12 to 5PM
UPwithART 2022 Registration is open!
March 15, 2022
The Department of Visual Arts is proud to support UPwithArt 2022! This annual fundraiser for Unity Project for Relief of Homelessness and Museum London is back with a hybrid event - an online auction (April 19 to 23) paired with in-person viewing plus a limited capacity Preview Night (April 16, 150 free tickets, available now). UPwithArt auction features 65 pieces of local art, many created by current and past members of the Department of Visual Arts.
Futurist’s 1960s vision inspires Western-curated exhibition
By
Debora Van Brenk ,Western News , March 03, 2022
Western professors and co-curators Kirsty Robertson and Sarah Smith are revisiting the ideas of Fuller’s conversations in "From Remote Stars: Buckminster Fuller, London, and Speculative Futures", a major exhibition opening at Museum London on March 5 and running until May 15.
Derek Liddington: The trees weep, the mountain still, the bodies rust | Musée d’art de Joliette
February 06, 2022
Congratulations to Derek Liddington, current studio-based PhD student and MFA '07 alum for his exhibition, "The trees weep, the mountain still, the bodies rust" on view February 5 - May 15, 2022 at Musée d’art de Joliette in Lanaudière, Quebec. Image: Derek Liddington, It was a foot. It was a flower. It was rust. It is movement. It is still. It was movement. It was still, 2021. Image courtesy of the artist and Daniel Faria Gallery. Photo by Jack McCombe
Leicester Gallery Open Talks | GardenShip and State: Curating and Commmunity Engagement in Time of Crisis
January 20, 2022
A recording of the Leicester Gallery Open Talk with hosted by GardenShip and State exhibition Co-curators, Jeff Thomas and Prof. Patrick Mahon, and one of the participating artists Mark Kasumovic (PhD '18) is now online. Twenty new works and activist projects responding to GardenShip and State’s overarching preoccupation with the environmental crisis and decolonization was highlighted in this discussion. With these artistic initiatives in mind, Jeff and Patrick facilitated a discussion with participants, focusing on the question, “How can artistic curating and intervention act as means for promoting and facilitating community engagement?”. The discussion was chaired by Professor Lala Meredith-Vula at De Montfort University in Leicester UK.
Pandemic Gardens: Resilience through nature | ECH
Embassy Cultural House , January 19, 2022Organized by Rachel A. MacGillivray and Ron Benner with the assistance of JoAnna Weil, Jamelie Hassan and Olivia Mossuto (BFA '19). Featuring over 40 artists, including faculty, staff, students and alumni from the Department of Visual Arts. Join the virtual launch on Zoom, February 5, 2022, at 1 pm EST. Photo credit: Rachel MacGillivray, 2021
SHOW.21 | Cambridge Art Galleries
January 17, 2022
Congratulations to Anahí González, MFA' 21 Alum and current PhD student, whose work "Cajitas", is included in the group exhibition SHOW.21. Established in 2005, Cambridge Art Galleries’ biannual exhibition SHOW presents the work of emerging artists based in Ontario. Selected from an open call of submissions, SHOW.21 presents the work of eleven artists with connections to Waterloo Region and surrounding areas.
Launch of From Remote Stars Podcast
December 12, 2021
From Remote Stars is a podcast exploring a recently uncovered recording that artist Greg Curnoe made of futurist and architect R. Buckminster Fuller speaking in London, Ontario in 1968. Hosted by artist Christina Battle, the series takes shape as three episodes, accompanied by in depth interviews with novelist Kerri Sakamoto and art historian Eva Díaz. Each episode builds from Fuller’s visit to London to discuss mythmaking, land, belonging, travel, decolonization, and climate crisis, and includes interviews with artists, curators, and scholars. This podcast accompanies the exhibition From Remote Stars: Buckminster Fuller, London, and Speculative Futures, curated by Kirsty Robertson and Sarah E.K. Smith, forthcoming at Museum London February 19 to May 15, 2022.
"Sleepwalking" | ECH and Words Festival
November 18, 2021
The Embassy Cultural House (ECH) and the Words Festival are pleased to present an evening visit with the artists of "Sleepwalking" - an event series hosted by ECH in solidarity with the people of Hong Kong. Featuring: Bob Black, Wu'er Kaixi, Yam Lau and Scott Savitt Hosted by BFA Alum, Olivia Mossuto
Water is Life: A Visit with GardenShip & State | WordsFest
November 17, 2021
Museum London and Words are pleased to present an evening visit with GardenShip & State, an exhibition of artists and curators who are investigating the role of water as a life-giving force as we face the Anthropocene. Water is Life: A Visit with GardenShip & State Hosts: Patrick Mahon and Jeff Thomas Featuring Lori Blondeau, Tom Cull, Michael Farnan, Amelia Fay, Joan Greer, Mark Kasumovic, Mary Mattingly, Adrian Stimson, Andres Villar, and Michelle Wilson
Shani Mootoo: In Conversation with Richard Fung | Words Fest
November 14, 2021
In partnership with the Embassy Cultural House, the Words Festival is pleased to welcome acclaimed author and Department of Visual Arts alumna, Shani Mootoo (BFA '80), who will join artist Richard Fung to talk about her work and recent novel Polar Vortex.
Welcome, Kelly Greene: Inaugural Indigenous Artist-in-Residence
By
Debora Van Brenk ,Western News , October 26, 2021
The Faculty of Arts and Humanities and the Department of Visual Arts are excited to announce Kelly Greene (BFA '94) is joining us as the inaugural Indigenous artist-in-residence. Debora Van Brenk from Western News spoke with Kelly Greene about her new role as the indigenous artist-in-residence.
Honorary degree for award-winning author, artist Shani Mootoo
By
Keri Ferguson ,Western News , October 25, 2021
Western University recognized Mootoo’s creative achievements with an honorary degree at the fall convocation on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021. Mootoo is an alumna of the Department of Visual Arts BFA program. "Mootoo, BFA’80, treasured the time she spent “ensconced,” in the art department under the wings of deKergommeaux, painter Paterson Ewen and sculptor Robin Peck. “That was a big deal for me,” she said. “I’m not in touch with any of them now, but I often think of them, of how supportive they were of me, and of us all. It was the beginning of where I am now.” "
ECH and Edna Press | Vancouver Art Book Fair
October 18, 2021
Embassy Cultural House partners with Edna Press (PhD candidate Ruth Skinner) to participate in the 2021 Vancouver Art Book Fair. This virtual event runs from Oct 18 - 26, and our virtual table features ECH and Edna titles with titles from ECH members and partners. Highlights include: a recent artists' multiple by PhD candidates Anahí González and Andreas Buchwaldt for The Other Neighbour of El Otro Lado; Sheila Butler - Other Circumstances, the exhibition catalogue organized with Patrick Mahon and Department alum Sarah Charette; Hiding In Plain Sight, edited by PhD candidate Shelley Kopp for artist and adjunct faculty member Ron Benner's compelling virtual exhibition of the same name. View the ECH/Edna table here and be sure to check out the VABF's excellent program of talks and workshops.
Sowing Clay: A Community Memorial | Facilitated by Michelle Wilson and Paul Chartrand
October 15, 2021
Sowing Clay brings together communities to create a memorial to land and water defenders killed protecting the more-than-human. Paul Chartrand and Michelle Wilson lead this collaborative project, which calls on participants from across Turtle Island to create a monumental installation. When completed, this memorial will comprise a chain of over 700 open links formed from unfired, locally gathered clay. Each link in the chain will carry one etched name and native seeds mixed into the clay body. When joined together, the links resemble intertwined arms, harkening to non-violent resistance movements and protests. Sign up to join one of the workshops at Support Gallery between October 20th – November 6th.
GardenShip and State Panel Discussion with Paul Chartrand and Michelle Wilson | Art Now! and Museum London
October 14, 2021
In partnership with Museum London, Art Now! is pleased to present a panel discussion with Paul Chartrand (MFA'17) and Michelle Wilson (PhD Candidate) moderated by Patrick Mahon, Western professor and curator of "GardenShip and State." October 21, 7PM in room MC-105B (open to Western students only). A recording will be made available to the public following the event.
In Conversation: Rah with Heather Anderson |UWAG
Akimbo , October 14, 2021
"The University of Waterloo Art Gallery and the Department of Fine Arts are pleased to present media artist Rah in conversation with curator Heather Anderson discussing the artist’s video installation Supernova" Rah graduated from the MFA program in the Department of Visual Arts at Western University in 2018.
Michael Pszczonak: The Colour of a Window | Michael Gibson Gallery
Michael Gibson Gallery , October 13, 2021
Congratulations to alumnus Mike Pszczonak (MFA ‘14) as he shares new work in a solo exhibition at Michael Gibson Gallery “The Colour of a Window”. The exhibition is on view October 13 - November 27, 2021
GardenShip and State | Museum London
Museum London , October 07, 2021
GardenShip and State is now open at Museum London! The exhibition features works produced over a two-year period – the results of conversations between the artists and writers, oftentimes with members of their local communities. GardenShip and State was curated by Jeff Thomas and Visual Arts Professor Patrick Mahon and features several Department of Visual Arts students and alumni.
Michael Farnan: Canoe Fight: From Reverence to Redress | MacLaren Art Centre
October 06, 2021
Congratulations to PhD alum Michael Farnan whose solo exhibition "Canoe Fight: From Reverence to Redress" is on view now until October 24, 2021 at the MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie, On.
Exhibition Review: Intercambio/Exchange at Support Project Space
By
Kim Neudorf ,Akimbo , September 22, 2021
Organized by the Embassy Cultural House as part of their recently revitalized series of socially engaged community projects in London and beyond, Intercambio/Exchange at Support Project Space highlights local artists Ron Benner, Patricia Deadman, Duncan DeKergommeaux, Mireya Folch-Serra, Anahí González, Gildo Gonzalez, Jamelie Hassan, Carlos Lores, Kim Moodie, Oscar Ortiz, Jenna Rose Sands, and Jean Spence – all of whose work has past and present ties with specific sites in Mexico, such as Oaxaca, Mexico City, Merida, San Miguel de Allende, and Saltillo. Intercambio/Exchange at Support Project Space is on view September 27 to October 18, 2021. Image: Anahi Gonzalez, Always Fresco, 2021, inkjet print.
Jade Williamson: In Peril | For the Love of Art Gallery
September 16, 2021
Congratulations to alumna Jade Williamson (BFA '21) whose exhibition "In Peril" is on view at For the Love of Art Gallery September 24 - 26, 2021. An opening reception is scheduled for September 24 at 7 pm.
Plastic Heart: Surface All the Way Through
September 08, 2021
"Plastic Heart: Surface All the Way Through" is on view now at The Art Museum at the University of Toronto. Curated by the Synthetic Collective which includes Department of Visual Arts Professors Kirsty Robertson and Kelly Wood and MFA Alum Tegan Moore.
2021 Satellite Award Exhibition: Function As One
Satellite Project Space , September 01, 2021
The 2021 Award Exhibition, "Function As One" showcases work by three recently graduated emerging artists including, Kaitlyn Hwang, a recent Western University graduate of the BFA program with an Honours Specialization in Studio Art. Clara Tuckey (Fanshawe College, Fine Art Diploma), and Kenna Robinson (Bealart).
Quinn Smallboy: String Theory | Glenhyrst Art Gallery
Glenhyrst Art Gallery , August 31, 2021
Congratulations to alumni Quinn Smallboy (BFA '14, MFA '17) whose exhibition "String Theory," is installed at Glenhurst Gallery from August 31 - September 26, 2021.
MFA alumna Anahí González featured in Vanguardia MX
August 25, 2021
PhD student and MFA alumna Anahí González (MFA '21) was featured in the arts section of Vanguardia MX highlighting her two simultaneous MFA thesis exhibitions titled "The Other Neighbour of El Otro Lado". These exhibitions were installed in two locations: the Artlab Gallery (London, ON, Canada) and El NODO (Saltillo, COAH, Mexico).
Gabriella Solti: Red + Red = Blue | Satellite Project Space
Satellite Project Space , August 18, 2021Congratulations to alumna Gabriella Solti (MFA'14), whose exhibition "Red + Red = Blue" is installed at Satellite Project Space from August 18 to 28, 2021. The exhibition features a series of watercolour paintings on handmade Japanese paper.
Sam Wagter: Shades of Blue and Smush | FCG
Forest City Galley , August 14, 2021
For many years, Forest City Gallery has supported the AJE through the contribution of the FCG Feature Award. The FCG Feature offers a presentation opportunity to one student each year, selected by a professional jury. The AJE 19, which took place in March 2021, awarded 4th year Visual Arts student, Sam Wagter, with this year's FCG Feature Award. Sam Wager's work will be up for viewing on the FCG website from August 14-28, 2021.
MKG127 Presents pockets, postscripts, peonies by Liza Eurich
MKG127 , July 14, 2021MKG127 is pleased to present "pockets, postscripts, peonies". An exhibition of recent works by Liza Eurich (MFA '12). July 10 – August 21, 2021.
"Conservation through visual arts"
By
Debora Van Brenk ,Western News , June 18, 2021With large-as-life artwork of endangered and vulnerable species such as this polar bear cub, Jade Williamson hopes to draw attention to the interconnectedness of life on the planet. Williamson, a fine arts graduate, is part of Western's Class of 2021.
"The New Politics of the Handmade: Craft, Art and Design" edited by alum Anthea Black (MFA'12) and Nicole Burisch
April 30, 2021
The New Politics of the Handmade: Craft, Art and Design is a publication on contemporary craft politics edited by alum Anthea Black (MFA' 12) and Nicole Burisch. This volume features twenty-three authors, including Professor Kirsty Robertson's essay titled Secret Stash: Textiles, Hoarding, Collecting, Accumulation and Craft.
Stop Extinction! Restore the Earth | ECH and Gardenship and State
April 30, 2021
The Embassy Cultural House (ECH) and GardenShip and State are pleased to present a virtual group exhibition Stop Extinction! Restore the Earth to celebrate Earth Day, April 22, 2021. Work in the exhibit features several artists from the Department of Visual Arts, within the ECH community and Gardenship and State participating artists. Artworks in the exhibit address the broad issues related to the climate crisis, and other threats to our ecology. Works also address the intersection of sustainable living and the respect for Indigenous land rights. Registration Required.
Artist Talk with Tegan Moore | YYZ Artists' Outlet
April 19, 2021
Alumna Tegan Moore (MFA'14) will deliver an artist talk to support her recent exhibition Foam Fatigue at YYZ Artists' Outlet on Thursday, April 22 at 7:30 PM ET on Zoom. Documentation of Form Fatigue is available on the YYZ website including GRANULAR: Audio Description by HaeAhn Paul Kwon Kajander and recorded by Avery Moore Kloss.
In Conversation: And Repeat | Art Gallery of Windsor
April 09, 2021
Curated by alum. Lucas Cabral (BFA '16) and Ray Cronin, the 2021 Windsor-Essex Triennial of Contemporary Art focuses on the theme of conversations. Alum. Sharmista Kar (MFA '18) joins the curators and artists Paul Dignan and Czarina Mendoza to discuss how they each use repetition to shine new light on seemingly mute materials. Join the online conversation on Thursday, April 15 at 7pm. Registration required.
UPwithART
UPwithART , April 09, 2021
We’re proud to support #UPwithART ! This annual fundraiser for Unity Project for Relief of Homelessness and Museum London is taking place online this year from April 18 to 24. Join us for an online art auction with 60+ pieces of local art, many created by current and past members of the Department of Visual Arts including: Quinn Smallboy (MFA), Ruth Strebe (BFA), Matthew Trueman (MFA), Gabriella Solti (MFA), Sharmistha Kar (MFA), Prof. Soheila Esfahani, Mike Pszczonak (MFA), Kim Neudorf (MFA), Kelly Greene (BFA), Prof. Tricia Johnson, George Kubresli (MFA), Prof. Patrick Mahon. View the art and register for free at UPwithART.ca . Make sure to register before April 20 to be entered to win a lithograph by Peter Max valued at $2,500.
SSHRC CGS-M Awarded to Dayna Obbema (BA '19)
April 01, 2021
Congratulations to alumna Dayna Obbema (BA '19) for receiving a SSHRC CGS-M grant to support her project titled "It’s Not Easy Being Green: Barriers Preventing Canadian Museums from Adopting Sustainable Practices." Dayna Obbema graduated from Western University in 2019 with a BA Honors Specialization in Art History and Museum Studies. She is currently studying at Queens University.
Destruction as a muse
AGO Insider , March 25, 2021The AGOInsider recently published an article featuring the group exhibition Written on the Earth on view now at the McIntosh Gallery. The exhibition features work by Hannah Claus, Joel Ong, and several members of the Department of Visual Arts including, Prof. Patrick Mahon, Ph.D. candidates Ellen Moffat & Eeva Siivonen, and MFA Alum Matthew Trueman.
Esmaa Mohamoud: To Play in the Face of Certain Defeat | AGH
March 19, 2021
Congratulations to BFA alum Esmaa Mohamoud on her exhibition at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Taking inspiration from the African American writer Ralph Ellison, artist Esmaa Mohamoud explores the ways in which Black bodies at once appear―and yet are rendered metaphorically invisible―within the spaces they navigate. To Play in the Face of Certain Defeat aims to re-examine understandings of contemporary Blackness, questioning the definitions of Blackness as a colour and shade, and/or as a societal or cultural construction. Curated by Matthew Kyba, Curator of Exhibitions at the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington, To Play in the Face of Certain Defeat is organized and circulated by Museum London.
Written on Earth | McIntosh Gallery
March 04, 2021
The McIntosh Gallery will be re-opening the gallery by appointment with "Written on Earth" a group exhibition curated by Helen Gregory and project managed by Patrick Mahon, presented in collaboration with the Northern Tornadoes project at Western Engineering. The exhibition features work by Hannah Claus, Joel Ong, and several members of the Department of Visual Arts including, Prof. Patrick Mahon, Ph.D. candidates Ellen Moffat & Eeva Siivonen, and MFA Alum Matthew Trueman.
Tegan Moore: Foam Fatigue | YYZ Artists' Outlet
February 02, 2021
Congratulations to alumna Tegan Moore (MFA'14), whose exhibition "Foam Fatigue" is installed at YYZ Artists' Outlet from February 12 to March 13, 2021. Image: Tegan Moore, A yellow chunk of spray insulation lays in grass filled with scattered Styrofoam granules from a rasping process of a stucco installation. Image courtesy of the artist.
Creating Art Full Time with Alayna Hryclik of Soft Flirt
January 27, 2021
Do you want to turn your passion for art into something you can do all the time? That's what Alayna Hryclik (BFA '13), did when she created Soft Flirt, a home decor and apparel brand based around Alayna's lifelong passion for creating art. Now a full-time artist, creator, and entrepreneur, Alayna has the freedom to create at her own pace. Join us on February 3rd at 1:00 pm to hear Alayna's engaging and inspiring story and have a chance to ask her questions about her experience!
Rah Eleh | CBC Arts
CBC Arts , December 21, 2020Alumni Rah Eleh (MFA '18) was recently featured in a CBC Arts: Artist Spotlight titled "How do you reckon with female self-immolation? For Rah Eleh, it meant reimagining how she makes art"
Brendan Fernandes | Interview on CBC q
November 09, 2020
Brendan Fernandes (MFA '05) joined Tom Power to discuss his new digital performance The Left Space commissioned by the Art Gallery of Ontario, and how the role of protest art has changed in the COVID-19 and Trump era.
The Left Space: Brendan Fernandes | The Art Gallery of Ontario
By
Art Gallery of Ontario , November 02, 2020"The Left Space" is a new digital commission by internationally renowned artist and Western University alumnus Brendan Fernandes, created specifically for this moment in time and for the AGO, that considers how we, the global left, have found ourselves in this predicament. Developed and choreographed for webcam and the grid formation of Zoom, custom backdrops by graphic designer Jerome Harris and on-and-off camera sequences will intervene and aesthetically connect a team of dancers from Hit and Run Productions performing from their homes around the world, with a score by DJ Karsten Sollors.
Niloufar Salimi: 75 Oriole Rd | Support
October 23, 2020
Congratulations to Alumna Niloufar Salimi (MFA'15), whose exhibition "75 Oriole Rd" opens Saturday, October 24 at Support. Excerpts from an accompanying essay by E.C. Woodley: Perhaps it is not a surprise that the daily drawing practice that produced this exhibition was occasioned by the loss of Salimi’s collective studio to COVID-19 safety measures. 75 Oriole Rd is an urgent retrieval of concentrated attention and seeing, of encounter with physical appearances.
Alumna Shani Mootoo Shortlisted for the Giller Prize
By
Giller Prize , October 05, 2020
Shani Mootoo has been shortlisted for the 2020 Giller Prize. Mootoo's novel Polar Vortex, published by Book*hug Press was nominated for the award, completed a BFA in 1980 in the Department of Visual Arts at Western.
Alumna Esmaa Mohamoud featured in the Field Trip Residency
By
Field Trips | Art Across Canada , October 04, 2020
Alumna Esmaa Mohamoud (BFA'14 from Western University) is currently featured in the Field Trip Residency. The Field Trip Artist Residency is an opportunity for arts organizations in Canada to listen, learn, respond and create space in a collaborative manner that is meaningful and relevant while advancing work towards inclusion and equity for marginalized populations.
Art Now! Presents: Katie Bethune-Leamen
September 24, 2020
Join us as the Art Now! Speakers' Series welcomes Katie Bethune-Leamen for an online lecture. The Art Now Speakers’ Series is a component of ongoing academic offerings in the Department of Visual Arts at Western University. The Fall 2020 Art Now Speakers' Series will be offered online, via Zoom Webinar.
Art Now! Panel Discussion: Richard Ibghy and Marilou Lemmens
September 22, 2020
Join us for an Art Now! panel discussion hosted on Zoom in partnership with McIntosh Gallery. Moderated by Alumna Dr. Helen Gregory, Curator at McIntosh Gallery, Theatre from the Jungle artists Richard Ibghy and Marilou Lemmens and Associate Professor of Geography Tony Weis will discuss the exhibition presented at McIntosh Gallery as it relates to themes of industrial agriculture and socio-economic cross-border labour issues.
Message from Undergraduate Chair Tricia Johnson
June 09, 2020
Congratulations to our Undergraduate Class of 2020 and welcome to the Alumni Western Family! Thank you to everyone who has shared news about where they will be headed next year. Here are a few successes we'd like to highlight, if we've missed you, please email visarts@uwo.ca and we'll include your news.
BFA Alumni Organize Charity Art Sale to Fundraise for BLM
June 08, 2020
Western Visual Arts BFA alumni Sofia Berger and Michael Thompson who run 'Eraser Gallery' are organizing and online art sale with proceeds benefitting the Black Lives Matter Bailout Fund. If you would like to submit an artwork for inclusion for this fundraiser, or would like to purchase an artwork please visit their Facebook page for additional information.
David Merritt: aweigh | empty gallery
March 08, 2020
David Merritt’s ‘aweigh’ opens Friday, March 13 @ 7 pm at 'empty gallery' in Victoria BC. The artist will be in attendance.
Postponed : James Knott - The Apocalypse In Your Bedroom | Artlab
Artlab Gallery , March 07, 2020
Please note that this event has been postponed. We have made this decision to ensure the health and safety of our visitors and campus community.
Postponed: My Diasporic Family’s Living Room | Satellite Project Space
Satellite Project Space , March 06, 2020
Please note that this event has been postponed. We have made this decision to ensure the health and safety of our visitors and campus community.
Opening Reception: Kelly Greene Accountability | McIntosh Gallery
McIntosh Gallery , February 22, 2020
Join us Friday, March 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the McIntosh Gallery for the opening reception of an exhibition titled "Accountability" by Western Visual Arts alumna Kelly Greene (BFA'94) held in conjunction with the opening reception for Johannes Zits: Listening to Trees. This event is free and open to the public, all are welcome!
Art Now! Presents: Kelly Mark at Museum London
Museum London , February 10, 2020
Art Now is heading to Museum London for this week's lecture! Join us for a tour of "Realisms" at 7PM, led by Andrew Kear. Artist talk to follow at 7:45PM. Presented in partnership with Museum London.
Art Now! Presents: Jamelie Hassan & Ruth Skinner
January 27, 2020
Art Now! Presents: Jamelie Hassan & Ruth Skinner; Presented in partnership with SASAH. Thursday, January 30, 2020 in Conron Hall, UC 3110.
Facilities Renewal: The Digital Creativity Lab – Opening Spring 2020
January 14, 2020
In response to increased need for digital production and presentation space, The Department of Visual Arts will be undergoing a renovation in January-March 2020 to create a new “Digital Creativity Lab”. This new flex-space will facilitate student and faculty photo, video, audio, and digital production and presentation.
