Port Coquitlam, BC - April 4, 2024...This spring and summer, Port Coquitlam's new Artist-in-Residence invites residents to imagine and co-create large-scale whimsical creatures out of natural materials in Lions Park.
Nickie Lewis, an artist, crafts organic eco-sculptures utilizing sticks, moss, and various plants. Drawing inspiration from the shapes and patterns inherent in nature, her sculptures are entirely biodegradable. Through her art, she aims to raise awareness about environmental impact, promote sustainable behaviors, and infuse a touch of natural enchantment into unexpected settings.
"Our artist-in-residence program plays a vital role in creating a vibrant community," said Mayor Brad West. "This is a creative opportunity to experience a unique way of engaging residents and visitors in the arts at Lions Park. I look forward to seeing what Nickie Lewis will create during her residency and I encourage all families to participate in the workshops."
Residents are invited to meet the artist at the fieldhouse in Lions Park during her open studio hours. Lewis will also be giving a talk about her project and art practice at the City's Cultural Roundtable on May 16 at 4:00 p.m. Visit portcoquitlam.ca/air for details.
Through her community-engaged project, Mix and Match Creatures, Lewis will be hosting free, family-friendly workshops in Lions Park from April to July. All materials will be supplied. Pre-registration at portcoquitlam.ca/register is required. (Space is limited)
Workshops include:
- Creature Ideas (2-5YRS)
April 19 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. #94765
April 20 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. #94766 - Collecting Materials & Building (12+ YRS)
May 9 - 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. #94767
May 10 - 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. #94768 - Creating Creature Frames (10+ YRS)
May 23 - 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. #94769
June 3 - 12:00 - 2:30 p.m. #94770 - Creature Part Fill-in (12+ YRS)
June 8 - 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. #94771
July 4 - 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. #94772 - Final Creature Additions (All Ages)
July 20 - 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. #94773
To register for a workshop, visit: portcoquitlam.ca/register or call (604) 927-PLAY.
"I am excited to witness the creative process as Nickie Lewis develops temporary art installations for our community." said Cllr. McCurrach, council designate for arts, culture and heritage and environment. "This program provides our community an invaluable opportunity to engage with artists and learn about their discipline and artistic approach."
Nickie Lewis will wrap up her summer residency and celebrate the creative community with a free public event in Lions Park on August 24, 2024. More details will follow closer to the date.
To learn more about the artist and her work, visit: portcoquitlam.ca/air.
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Media Contact
Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email [email protected]