Often people do not immediately associate the fine or performing arts with the environment, but artists can play a profound role in working for social and environmental change. Through such arts as sculpture, painting, music and dance, artists can raise awareness of injustices and inspire us to value the natural world. For example, you can:
- Develop and implement community arts programs that enrich people’s lives while working for social or environmental change.
- Create works of art, dances, theatre that depict nature or touch on environmental themes.
- Develop curriculum or arts programs for schools, community centres, or youth groups.
Where you could work:
- Art galleries
- Theatre or dance groups
- Community centres
- NGOs
- As a self-employed arts practitioner
The BES program provides ample scope for students to think creatively and produce non-traditional scholarly work. For those interested in teaching or working as a community artist, students gain these skills through participation in community projects. Every year the Faculty hosts the Eco-Art and Media Festival, which represents an opportunity for students to showcase their art work, present a dance or stage a play. Students also have access to the Wild Garden Media Centre, which includes a darkroom, video equipment and an editing bay. You can also minor in Fine Arts in the BES program.