Revolution, Liberation and Change through Public Art

Trevor Stark

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Speaker

Trevor Stark

Trevor Stark is Associate Professor of Art History in the Department of Art and Art History, University of Calgary. He is the author of Total Expansion of the Letter: Avant-Garde Art and Language After Mallarmé (MIT Press, 2020). His research focuses on the emergence and legacies of the “avant-garde” in twentieth-century art, and his writing has appeared in journals including Art History, Critical Inquiry, October, and Texte zur Kunst. 

Harvey Nichol

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Speaker

Harvey Nichol

Harvey Nichol, born and raised in the Tondo District slums of Metro Manila, immigrated to Canada as a youth. He studied at Alberta University of the Arts, pursuing a BFA in Sculpture during the 2020 pandemic. Harvey’s art, termed “Social-Folk Expressionism,” blends neo-expressionism, Filipino social realism, street, and folk art. His work spans mediums from murals and life-size sculptures to streetwear design, reflecting his experiences as an immigrant, navigating homelessness, and the foster care system.

In September 2023, Harvey released his debut graphic novel, “Aklas Comics,” an anthology exploring Mega Manila in 2048. This “Filipino-Futurist” series addresses future societal issues, human resilience, and the quest for identity. Harvey’s work serves as a visual autoethnography, intertwining personal narrative with broader cultural, political, and social themes.

His innovative approach has led to diverse projects, exhibitions, and residencies, collaborating with local and international brands like the City of Calgary, Brookfield Properties, Neo Financial, Esker Foundation, BUMP Festival, and Herschel Supply. Despite being an independent artist without gallery representation, Harvey’s art is sought after globally, with collectors from America to Australia.

Dan Cardinal

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Speaker

Dan Cardinal

Dan Cardinal McCartney (he/him) is an interdisciplinary artist and emerging curator with a Drawing degree from AUArts (2016). Dan’s maternal side is of Athabasca Chipewyan First Nations with family ties of Mikisew Cree, Metis from Treaty 8 territory, specifically Fort Chipewyan. His paternal side consists of first-generation newcomers from Germany. Dan was raised in foster care in the northern boreal region of Fort McMurray.

As a Two Spirit transgender artist, Dan sifts through patterns of intergenerational trauma. He relates his personal, ongoing reconnection with biological and foster families to his yearning for gender euphoria through storytelling. Dan focuses on mixed media collage, painting, moving images, and performance. He is interested in the horror genre through a contemporary, Indigenous lens.

Currently, Dan is a Co-Artistic Director at Stride Gallery in Calgary, AB and a Core Member of Ociciwan Contemporary Art Centre in Edmonton, AB.

JUMU Monster

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JUMU Monster

Jumu Monster creates art that bridges the past and present, offering a journey through cultural diversity and the myths and legends of ancient civilizations. Inspired by their roots and the pre-Columbian heritage of the Abya Yala, Latin American culture, their work spans muralism, performance, and scenography. With striking colors and textures, [Artist’s name] tells stories of inclusion, respect, and cultural richness. Drawing on mythical tales and ancient ritual practices, their art reflects the enduring significance of these symbols in the modern world. Through performances and paintings, they invite audiences to explore new perspectives and appreciate the profound connection between humans and nature.

Eman Safadi, BUMP Festival

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Moderator

Eman Safadi, BUMP Festival

Eman Safadi is the Outreach & Partnerships Manager at BUMP and comes from a diverse background in producing, directing, music industry management, and fundraising. As co-founder of FOREIGNERZ, Eman oversees production and operations, leading various film projects and music videos. In addition to her work with both BUMP and FOREIGNERZ, Eman is actively involved in the arts community. She engages within the community and spurs innovative collaborations across creative genres. Eman’s work frequently pushes boundaries, producing art that sits at the intersection of politics and culture, often fuelled by a powerful underground seeking to create change through art. In addition, Eman’s industry workshops and panel discussions are hosted by notable Calgary institutions, such as Arts Commons, The GRAND, and Sled Island Music Festival.