Our Artist in Residence program is a self-directed residency offering artists the opportunity to research, develop and produce new or ongoing bodies of work, with dedicated studio time. The Artist in Residence program offers opportunities for artists to work in the community, develop arts-based engagement activities, and deliver creative projects that generate meaningful connections. The program sees artists work collaboratively with community members in initiatives where the participants take a central role as creators, producers, and performers or as active audiences for the project. With a goal of contributing to the growing vibrancy of our neighbourhoods, the Artist in Residence program seeks to inspire participation and relationship-building where art (the process of creating together) acts as a catalyst for individual and community engagement. Residencies are for artists or artist collectives working in the visual, performance, literary, and musical arts.
Artist in Residence: Keely O’Brien
Meet Port Coquitlam’s Artist in Residence, Keely O’Brien. Keely is an interdisciplinary artist based in Vancouver, BC. Her practice incorporates intricately handmade objects with innovative theatre creation. Devoted to a thoroughly DIY process, Keely’s work includes immersive installations, imaginative ephemera, and interactive experiences. As a community-engaged arts facilitator and educator, Keely creates collaborative artwork with community members and organizations. Frequently site-responsive and engaged with questions of place, home, and belonging, Keely’s work aims to celebrate the potential for creativity and community in the place and people around her. Keely is Co-Artistic Director of the experimental theatre company Popcorn Galaxies. She holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from Simon Fraser University, and is a self and family-taught visual artist. To learn more, visit keelyobrien.ca.
During her residency in the Outlet Studio, Keely will use community engagement and interdisciplinary art to recognize and record homes that are woven into family histories. She is particularly interested in delving into the themes of intergenerational memory and how our understanding of the concept of “home” evolves, especially in light of the ongoing housing crisis. The core objectives of this project are to re-exam ordinary places through a creative lens and to inspire meaningful and personal connections among community participants.
To participate in this project please attend one of the community engagement opportunities listed below, or fill out the online creative questionnaire available here: www.keelyobrien.ca/place-portraits.
Keely O’Brien will also be giving an artist talk about her project and art practice at the City’s Cultural Roundtable on September 19 at 4pm. Visit portcoquitlam.ca/culturalroundtable for details.
Community Engagement
Place Portraits Art Workshop with Keely O'Brien (All Ages) - Outlet Artist in Residence Studio
Join Artist in Residence, Keely O'Brien, for an engaging and hands-on art workshop. In this session, you'll create a unique piece of artwork inspired by a place that holds special meaning for you or your family's history. This could be a location that still exists or one that has changed or disappeared over time. During the workshop, you will learn a DIY printmaking process to craft a beautiful portrait of this significant place. Once completed, you will have the option to display your artwork at the Outlet Studio. Please bring a physical or digital photo of the place you have in mind, if available. All other materials will be provided. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Outlet AiR Studio
98524
Sa 1:00pm-2:30pm Nov 9
Free
Gallery
