Fine Arts Shining Student Oliver Petti

Shining Student Oliver Petti came to ULethbridge with a mission to become a theatre technician or a theatre designer. As he prepares to finish his postsecondary journey, Oliver is walking away with valuable theatre experience and some great memories.

I chose Fine Arts at ULethbridge because of the community. I spoke to a few ULethbridge grads when I was trying to pick a university, and they all told me about how easy it was for them to get to know their peers and their profs. To me, that was the most appealing factor.

Meet Oliver. Technician. Designer. Artist.
Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts - Dramatic Arts | Major: Technical/Design

Why did you choose to pursue fine arts at ULethbridge?

I chose Fine Arts at ULethbridge because of the community. I spoke to a few ULethbridge grads when I was trying to pick a university, and they all told me about how easy it was for them to get to know their peers and their profs. To me, that was the most appealing factor.

What inspires your artistic/musical practice?

The thought that when I collaborate on a production, there is the possibility to make a viewer think, or even change the way they think about something.

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

Ever since middle school I knew I wanted to be a technician and/or a designer for theatre. It was always a no-brainer.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

The scenic painting class I took. It was incredible—I love making a mess, so this was easily my favourite 9 a.m. class. We would come in at 9 in the morning and sometimes literally throw paint with our bare hands in the University Theatre.

How have your professors or instructors impacted your education?

My professors are always open to meeting outside of class. This was a huge help for me.

Tell us about your experiential or work-integrated learning opportunities at ULethbridge and how these have enhanced your education?

I worked on a production called Estate Sale. It was written by a friend of mine, and we put it on at Didi’s Playhaus. I was the production designer for it and I had it count as an independent study. It was a real challenge putting on theatre with no budget and like 12 lights.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

I’m going to be moving back to Calgary pretty soon here. I’m hoping to stay there for a while and then maybe one day move to Montreal and join Cirque du Soleil.

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

Seriously, put in the extra effort and talk to your professors outside of class hours.