Artist as Changemaker: Stephanie Banszky
The artists participating in the Artist as Changemaker Residency and Fellowship Program have been diligently immersed in their projects, and we are thrilled to take a peek at their creative endeavours in anticipation of the upcoming final showcase scheduled for May 2024.
Stephanie Banszky - Artist as Changemaker Resident
Partner: City of Calgary, Village Square Community Hub
How Might We: How might we weave a deeper connection with ourselves, each other and the environment?
Who’s involved - Village Square Leisure Centre, City of Calgary, Community Participants
Project Description: The Village Square Fabric Art Group emerged as a response to the growing disconnection observed post-pandemic across Calgary. The group aimed to address the disconnection from community networks, cultural practices, and traditional fibre heritages. Simultaneously, the project sought to tackle the ecological threat posed by the increasing fabric waste, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable practices.
Purpose: The Village Square Fabric Art Storytelling Group endeavours to go beyond the fabric itself, aiming to create a collaborative art piece representative of interconnected communities, empowered individuals, and a sustainable approach to artistic expression. Through the fabric medium, the project aspires to tell stories, revive traditions, and bridge the gaps that have emerged in our communities, ultimately weaving a deeper connection with ourselves, each other, and the environment.
Impact:
Community Revitalization: Facilitating the revitalization of community bonds and networks, particularly after the isolating effects of the worldwide pandemic.
Environmental Contribution: Reducing fabric waste through repurposing, contributing to a sustainable and eco-friendly artistic practice.
Empowerment: Empowering individuals, especially women and marginalized groups, by providing a creative expression and dialogue platform.
Cultural Preservation: Preserving and reviving cultural practices associated with fabric, fostering a connection to traditional fibre heritages.
Find out more about Stephanie’s work here - https://stephaniebanszkycreative.com/fibre-project