Last phase

Last month we teamed up with Centre3’s NuDeal program for the last workshop of the project, thanks to its Coordinator, Victoria for spreading the word to her students. An arts education program at Centre3, NuDeal offers youth in Hamilton a 12 week screen printing course. Students are taught by Centre3 artist themselves from designing, printing, and marketing their own products. The program bridges the gap on creative arts, education and entrepreneurship, at the same time acting as a way for youth to get their high school diploma.

It was a cold January afternoon that we gathered up after program hours for a design exercise and discussions on how the city has been perceived by locals and outsiders. As art students of Centre3, NuDeal youth have been exposed to artworks on display and have been displayed about Hamilton. The city’s distinct characteristic to be inspiring for artists and would-be artists resonates in the group. The students believe in the city’s capability to thrive and grow by way of people taking risks, especially in creative business. This being said, when it comes to art works that is to reflect the city, one student articulated, “Certain Artist make Hamilton so industrial, ripping it off, it is only one area and there’s a lot more of Hamilton”. We carry this message with us, in trying to re-brand Hamilton to be more relatable to young people. Remembering and recognizing cultural and historical sites are important for our growth and we must look forward with these in mind.

As we have reached the project’s last phase, our collection of images, words and stories from young people of various background and experiences of the city are what guides us. Young people with their experiences and refreshing insights have the ability to move and change the direction of growth in the city. We must actively include them for their perspectives to guide and encourage cultural, social, political and economic participation.

In the weeks to come, we will create promotional materials for the city. Look for our updates here or in our Facebook page.

Until next time!