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Highlandia is one of those days that reminds me why the arts matter so deeply in our communities. Music spilling from the stage. Kids sitting cross-legged in the grass. Neighbours gathering, listening, celebrating.
In this painting, Virginia Park students sit in the foreground with their ukuleles — not as an audience, but as part of the music. Monica Dear leads both on stage and on the grass below, bridging generations, mentorship, and shared joy. That connection is everything to me as both an artist and an educator. I am fortunate enough to work and teach with Monica.
I’m not interested in perfect likeness here — I’m interested in belonging. In how public spaces become classrooms. In how children see themselves reflected in the arts when they are invited in, not placed on the sidelines.
This piece is about community showing up for the love of the arts — and the quiet, powerful moments that stay with us long after the music ends.
YEGFREESHIP2026 for those in the Edmonton and area for local pick up.
Highlandia is one of those days that reminds me why the arts matter so deeply in our communities. Music spilling from the stage. Kids sitting cross-legged in the grass. Neighbours gathering, listening, celebrating.
In this painting, Virginia Park students sit in the foreground with their ukuleles — not as an audience, but as part of the music. Monica Dear leads both on stage and on the grass below, bridging generations, mentorship, and shared joy. That connection is everything to me as both an artist and an educator. I am fortunate enough to work and teach with Monica.
I’m not interested in perfect likeness here — I’m interested in belonging. In how public spaces become classrooms. In how children see themselves reflected in the arts when they are invited in, not placed on the sidelines.
This piece is about community showing up for the love of the arts — and the quiet, powerful moments that stay with us long after the music ends.
YEGFREESHIP2026 for those in the Edmonton and area for local pick up.