Five questions with Shining Graduate Kylie Fineday (BFA

Recipient of the 2020 Faculty of Fine Arts Gold Medal

For consistently presenting a remarkable level of professionalism, compassion and creative engagement while maintaining top academic standing, uLethbridge is proud to recognize Kylie Fineday (BFA - Art, with a major in Art Studio), with the 2020 Faculty of Fine Arts Gold Medal.

Throughout her time at uLethbridge, Kylie produced ambitious and creative research projects, curated art exhibitions, participated in professional internships at renowned art galleries, volunteered in the community and developed a confident voice that speaks for her values. She has also received many awards including the prestigious Roloff Beny Foundation Photographic Award (2019), Abbondànza Fine Arts Award (2018), the Indigenous Art History and Museum Studies Award (2018), and Art History/Museum Studies Gallery Award (2018), to name a few.

Kylie possesses the acumen, skill and passion to establish herself as a successful arts’ professional.She will undoubtedly strengthen Indigenous voices across Canada, amplify their cultural practices and advocate for social justice for all.

Works by Kylie Fineday featured in the 2020 Art Open Studio online catalogue

We asked Kylie about her uLethbridge experience:

What is your most memorable uLethbridge experience?
My most memorable uLethbridge experience was having my undergrad thesis exhibition in December. The opportunity to exhibit my art work and the practice I've been developing over my academic career felt really great!

Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your time at uLethbridge?
My thesis supervisor Mary Kavanagh is someone who has had an important influence on the development of my studio practice throughout my time at uLethbridge. I would also like to express that all of the art department technicians are amazing and they work so hard to help students realize their artistic ideas.

What is the most important lesson you learned?
The most important lesson I've learned is that balancing responsibilities with leisure is important, and that it's okay to turn down some things when life gets too busy. I think this is a lesson that I've learned multiple times in realizing when I have too much on my plate, and need to reevaluate my priorities. I'm sure it's a lesson that I will keep relearning.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?
I hope to maintain my art studio practice and to exhibit my work in different capacities, and to continue developing a curatorial practice as well. Eventually I would like to pursue a master's degree. I also hope to be a positive role model for Indigenous youth and encourage them to pursue their passions.

What advice would you give to students who are about to begin their post-secondary journeys?
I would encourage new students to get to know their professors, don't be afraid to ask questions, and get involved with the community. Join clubs, be an activist, go to events, take advantage of all the resources available to you as a student.

View Kylie's artist profile in the 2020 Art Open Studio online catalogue.