FEATURED EXHIBITION
February 1 - April 14, 2023
Inspired by words associated with renowned Canadian academic and environmental activist, David Suzuki, this exhibit expresses the thoughts, emotions, experiences, observations, and ideas of young members of our community.
These works of art were created by students from Elizabeth Ziegler Public School, Kitchener-Waterloo Collegiate and Vocational School, and Waterloo Collegiate Institute. Art teachers Tamara Awad Lobe, Laurie Lehmann, Stella Andonoff, Gianna McGrath, and Milica Kalaba explored the theme “The Nature of Things" with their students. Teachers then worked with and supported the students to bring about this sizeable collection, reflecting amazing creativity, thoughtfulness, and diversity of mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, papier-mâché masks, and mixed media.
Through these works, students speak to us about the nature of a wide range of topics.
Some of these young artists speak of the kind of world in which they want to live. We learn of their relationships with the earth, the environment, and what nature means to them. Students are wondering about the animals — the birds, the fish, the land animals — and how they are doing.
While some artists address subjects related to clean air and water, others share self-discoveries, fears, concerns, mental health, self-care and wellbeing challenges; they talk about what has changed in their lives during the pandemic.
Yet others wonder about the beauty in themselves, and how to protect each person. Students speak clearly about relationships with their own uniqueness, about generosity and kindness, and about how to guard and protect the goodness that exists.
The Kanata Centre invites you to listen to the voices of our children and youth, as you appreciate their brilliant creations; their work embodies the power of art and the power of imagination.
Carol Pinnock,
Curator
For the Kanata Centre:
Director: Debbie Lou Ludolph
Curator: Carol Pinnock
Digital Images: Michael ManChoi Chow
Digital gallery design: Sherry Coman
Art on the Wall team:
Carol Pinnock, Helen Weber, Brenda McDonald, Michael Manchoi Chow, Beverly McNabb
Advisory team: Ara Parker, Sherry Coman
Please note that this site does not showcase the entire exhibition, but offers a representative sample. We look forward to welcoming you to the gallery where you can enjoy all of the art!