Artist's reflections on AISI residency at Grant MacEwan Elementary School
By Ewa Sniatycka, Artist in Residency 2004-2005
This residency was supported in equal parts by AISI, The Alberta Foundation for the Arts: Artists in Schools Program and Grant MacEwan Parent Council and it has been a journey of tremendous growth. It spanned the school year, involving all staff, students and families in aspects of artistic inquiry, connecting experiences in the classroom, in the natural environment and in the museum. It fostered opportunities to cultivate curiosity, and consider observation, imagination and memory as a viable position from which to explore.
Through the residency, I was reminded that listening carefully is fundamental to establishing community and embarking on collaborative work. Risking in favour of engagement and openness is transformative. Being involved in the process of authentically coming to understand ourselves is a shared journey.
The residency allowed me to share new work within a community of learners. Studio practice allowed us to open dialogue, to refine ideas, to share experiences and expertise, and to explore materials. It supported multiple literacies and encouraged sharing our stories.
