Fine Arts Shining Student Jackson Paquette

Shining Student Jackson Paquette takes inspiration from his surroundings, from the concrete hallways of the University of Lethbridge, to the sweeping grasses in the coulees. Enhancing his theatre education with a minor in Indigenous Studies, Jackson is playing an integral part in the Indigenization of fine arts at ULethbridge.

I was the Stage Manager for the production of Yisstsiiyi. Usually, this role is for upper-year students, but after only three semesters in school, I was trusted with this incredible opportunity. I put countless hours into this project, staying at school 14 hours a day, managing dozens of emails, completing all kinds of paperwork and organizing this incredible team of actors, musicians, designers, directors, backstage crew and more so all of us could create a historic first production at the University that I am so proud of.

Meet Jackson. Strong. Proud. Kind.
Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts - Dramatic Arts | Major: Technical/Design

Why did you choose to pursue fine arts at ULethbridge?

I love the variety of academics here at the University. You get a little bit of everything. Here, I can spend three hours painting a forest landscape in a classroom, then go across the hall and learn the intricacies of Indigenous art history. The next day, I will learn how to budget for lumber and fabric, and after that, use meditation and mindfulness for a writing assignment.

Tucked between these coulees is a wealth of knowledge that I love tapping into, learning new fun facts, historical icons, and deepening my understanding of myself.

What inspires your artistic/musical practice?

I take great inspiration from the land around me, my friends and my family. If I am feeling down or stuck artistically, I go for a walk with a friend in the river valley or along the coulees. Listening to the birds singing in the trees, feeling the dirt beneath my feet, the wind on my face. It is the perfect reset for your brain to continue intensive work.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge? Has your academic plan changed since you began your studies?

When I started, I still wanted to pursue performing on stage as well as tech, but the more I learn, the more I am pulled into the behind-the-scenes where the magic happens, the “dark side” is where I feel at home.

I am following my inspiration to build more skills and experience with hanging and focusing lights, balancing mics, making sound cues and taking blocking notes.

I am also working towards getting a minor in Indigenous Studies. I wish to learn as much as I can about the history and traditions of Indigenous cultures. It brings me closer to the land I grew up on and my own Mitchif history that was hidden from me and my family.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

My most memorable moment was probably Tech Week for the Making Treaty 7 Society's production of Yisstsiiyi. It was my first time stage managing a production of this scale and I was so nervous leading up to it. I was reviewing my script, taking notes and taking deep breaths. As soon as I took my place at that table, all those fears melted away, and I successfully and proudly led an incredible Cue to Cue. I planned to get through the first five pages of the script, and we completed 26 pages.

How have your professors or instructors impacted your education?

Andi, Arlene, Baz, Brendan, Betty, D. A., Dave, Henrie, Jen, Julia, Kelly, Lee, Lynn, Mike, Monica, Peach, Shelly and Tara have all welcomed me into this wonderful world of art. They have taken me down this incredible journey of discovery and I have only just begun. They trusted me to Stage Manage a show with my limited experience but liable skills. They gave me a platform to go beyond any comfort zone and learn exciting new skills that I couldn’t even imagine I was capable of. They taught me all that I know, and I have only just begun my education. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Maarsii Ni Kishchiitayhtayn.

Tell us about your experiential and Work-Integrated Learning experiences.

I was the Stage Manager for the production of Yisstsiiyi. Usually, this role is for upper-year students, but after only three semesters in school, I was trusted with this incredible opportunity. I put countless hours into this project, staying at school 14 hours a day, sending emails, completing all kinds of paperwork, and organizing this incredible team of actors, musicians, designers, directors, backstage crew and more so all of us could create a historic first production at the University that I am so proud of.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

I hope to travel, stage manage and design shows across the country and even the world. The first stop this summer will definitely be the Métis Crossing to practice my jigging. I'll find a home somewhere in nature where I can practice drawing and finish writing. See where my heart takes me.

What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

Ask questions. Try everything. When you find yourself slipping into a mundane routine, throw a wrench in your day-to-day and see what happens. Shake it up. Use the good vanilla. Go for it. The best is in store; the universe will guide you.