Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in Ontario and after I finished my Studio Art Diploma there, I transferred to the University of Lethbridge to get my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. During my time studying at the University I volunteered with the ULethbridge Art Gallery, and in my last semester I did an applied study, also at the gallery. I graduated with a BFA in Studio Art in December 2016, and began working for the Art Gallery in January 2017. I always thought I would move back to Ontario when I graduated, but Alberta and Lethbridge had different plans for me, and I am so happy to still be living here.
How long have you been at ULethbridge and what do you do here?
I have been working here for five years, and I am the Programs Coordinator for the ULethbridge Art Gallery. In my role I get to plan all the public events we offer, work with community organizations to offer free arts programs and maintain our social media presence. I am also involved with Mootookakio’ssin, which is a project that works on digitizing historical Blackfoot objects held in British museums, making them more accessible to the Siksikaitsitapi peoples.
What’s the best part of your job?
I always had a dream of getting a job in the arts after graduating, so I worked really hard, and now it blows my mind that I get to come here every day! My job is to create a safe space where people can come to experience art and express themselves, and I think that is the best job in the world. I get to be with people when they experience art for the first time or in a new way, and that is magical.
I love that I am able to be around beautiful, thought-provoking things all day, and all my coworkers and students I meet are fantastic to work with.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy being out in nature, especially going for long walks or gardening. I also love being creative through crochet, drawing and home renovation projects. I love visiting the local galleries and museums, and going to city events.
You will often find me at the downtown library browsing, or biking around Henderson Lake.