Ontario Tech students' art invites conversations on equity and belonging

A powerful new art exhibit is now on display at Oshawa City Hall, featuring the creative works of students in Ontario Tech University’s Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies program. The exhibit, part of the city’s Arts and Culture in the Hall showcase, highlights pieces created in EDST 3999U - The Power of Art: Advancing Equity through the Creative Process, taught by Dr. Anna Rodrigues in Winter 2024.

This unique course challenges students to explore the intersections of education, social justice, and creativity. Through critical discussions and hands-on projects, students used artistic expression as a tool to confront issues of equity and inclusion. Students crafted visual responses to prompts such as “What is art?”, “What does community-based art mean to you?”, and “How can you visually represent a social justice issue of your choice?”

The exhibit features a diverse range of multimedia works, each reflecting the personal experiences and perspectives of the student artists. From visual storytelling to mixed media installations, the pieces aim to provoke thought and foster dialogue on issues such as racial justice, accessibility, and community empowerment.

The display will be available for public viewing at Oshawa City Hall through April 14, offering visitors a glimpse into the ways that art can act as a catalyst for change.