Heather’s Thoughts on Her Residency

“Fuelling creativity was my goal for coming to Wood Buffalo for the Suncor Indigenous Artist Program. I had never been to the region, and it was my first opportunity to teach workshops and my first residency away from Calgary.

During this time, I was supported by the amazing team at Arts Council of Wood Buffalo, who welcomed me warmly and ensured I had everything I needed to make this an amazing arts opportunity (including a cozy AirBnB in Fort McMurray for myself at my furry traveling companion Izabella, the cat).

The space at Keyano College’s printmaking studio was a dream come true. I would only dream of having a space that incredible all to myself back in Calgary. This space gave me the ability to work on my resin everyday, 24/7 and I spent as much time there as possible, including a 22-hour all-nighter in my last few days.

When I wasn’t working, I was also able to enjoy the Keyano Theatre’s production of “All Together Now.” I didn’t realize how much I had missed live theatre over the past 2 years.

Nick Vardy connected me with Elders in Fort Chipewyan and Anzac for my Pine Needle Basket Weaving workshops, and ensured everything was done in a culturally appropriate way.

Hiy-hiy Maarsi. Thank you to the ACWB team for this wonderful experience.”

Photo by Nick Vardy