X-Ray of a NSCAD Student

Arte & Movement Exhibition at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia / 2023

Photo credits: Duane Jones

Arte & Movement Exhibition at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia / 2023

Photo credits: Duane Jones

This large-scale sculpture celebrates the boldness, creativity, and incredible talent of NSCAD students across all disciplines. Inspired by my own experience at NSCAD and the peers I met from all walks of life, the piece is a vibrant, playful tribute to artistic exploration.

The black-and-white tiles represent NSCAD’s Fountain Campus, warped in reference to Alice in Wonderland — a nod to the campus’s famously confusing layout. In fine detail, Hollis and Duke St. are subtly inscribed to give a vague sense of orientation on campus. Each element honors a different discipline: 3D paint for painting students, bedazzled glamorous teeth for jewelry students, a lavish fishnet tongue for fashion students, and, of course, the overall sculpture itself represents sculpture students.

The “monster” at the center symbolizes NSCAD students’ creative X-ray — bold, imaginative, and extravagant. Neon colors, gems, and lavish details make the inner energy of NSCAD visible, capturing the essence of students’ fearless artistic spirit.

I am offering this piece for a fundraiser supporting the IWK in Nova Scotia. My hope is that young artists who see it feel inspired to create without borders, explore their potential, and perhaps consider NSCAD’s extended studies programs or more. With online courses and endless possibilities, who knows what future creators will imagine next? After all, art is inspired from the barriers to create it.