Artist Talk with Emily Chu + Jan Xu

Date: Nov 1, 2024

Deadline: Nov 14, 2024 - 5:30 pm

November 13, 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Allard Hall 4th Floor Room 11-451

Refreshments & Door prize featuring prints from local artists

Emily Chu and Jan Xu were chosen as mentor and mentee, respectively, for Macewan Sustainability's "Take Back the Streets" Chalk Art Event on September 4th - a street-takeover celebration that coincided with the Capital Boulevard Block Party. The goal of this mentorship program is to connect an early-career artist with an established artist – both with an interest in street art, public art, or public intervention and social practice art.

The artists paired up in August and chose a topic of interest to research and focus on. On November 13th they will present an artist talk sharing their experience, their practice, and their research with the broader community. Artist talks are a great way for the public to become familiar with an artist's work and how it impacts them.

This event is for art & design students, emerging and professional artists, and anyone interested in the local arts scene. Folks should attend to gain insights into sustaining a creative practice as an emerging or professional artist.

Bios:

Jan Xu

I draw creative inspiration from daily life—the fleeting moments, mundane objects seen too often, and the whimsical imaginations of children—all provide material and impetus for my creations. Additionally, my works often reflect influences from both Eastern and Western cultural backgrounds, as well as my reverence for great artists and nature.

Last year, I had the opportunity to delve into chalk art. Through various experiences in designing and creating chalk art, I have developed an understanding of its forms and techniques. This exploration has allowed me to refine my style and deepen my interest in chalk art. I particularly appreciate its vibrant colors, striking effects, and the ability to create large-scale artworks outdoors.  Since last year, my artworks have been exhibited in EPL galleries, coffee shops, and festivals, garnering considerable attention.

Emily Chu:

I am a Chinese multi-disciplinary artist based on Treaty 6, Edmonton. My artistic practice work flows between commercial illustration, visual arts, and public art/murals. I am also an arts-
community organizer, with over 10+ years organizing art markets, a co-organizer of Chinatown Greetings, a project that amplifies local artists' voices and calls for care in Chinatown, and I am also the founder and lead organizer of Togather Chinatown Art Fair - A Lunar New Year art market featuring Edmonton’s community-minded artists, food businesses, and cultural organizations.

RSVP forms.gle/113f2GebQrLvFqQX9