MorningFiled #1: Fresh Starts in the Arts

As regular listeners of MorningFile might know, I have the privilege of being in conversation with unique, bold, and accomplished people in Hamilton and beyond on a daily (morningly?) basis. This week was particularly thematically relevant, as two of my interviews happened to be with individuals who are newly stepping into their (far from insignificant) roles in Hamilton’s arts scene.

This represents not only an exciting transition period for them, but for the arts in Hamilton and at McMaster as well, as they bring new ideas, possibilities, and perspectives to the table. Read on for a short description of the wonderful individuals I spoke with and their new roles, some of our key talking points, and finally, a link to the interview.

FILED 06/03 – Pamela Edmonds

ROLE: New Senior Curator of the McMaster Museum of Art, starting May 13.

BIO: Pamela Edmonds has over 20 years’ experience in curation in Canadian institutions, and holds an MA in art history. Her work focuses on representation in contemporary art. She is involved with numerous Canadian arts publications as both a writer and an editor, and works with several grassroots organizations.

WE TALKED ABOUT: What makes “good” curatorial practice; decolonialization/anti-racism/anti-classism in arts spaces; 2019 plans for the McMaster Museum (we’re going to have fun!).

LISTEN: INTERVIEW WITH PAMELA EDMONDS

http://cfmu.ca/shows/141-marauder-morning

FILED 06/05 – David Hudson

ROLE: New Community Engagement Officer of the Hamilton Arts Council

BIO: David Hudson was trained as a dancer and toured in the UK, before coming across the pond to Hamilton and founding the David Hudson Dance Company. He was approached by the Hamilton Arts Council to participate in Arts Week, and fell in love with the event. One year later, he is part of the all-new executive team hosting Arts Week 2019 as its Community Engagement Officer, and is also a dancer and choreographer with the newly formed #DanceHamOnt Collective.

WE TALKED ABOUT: His experiences, from the UK  to founding a dance company in Hamilton; events and behind the scenes of Arts Week 2019; the future of Arts Week, including some new ideas for 2020.

LISTEN: INTERVIEW WITH DAVID HUDSON

http://cfmu.ca/episodes/15020-june-5-hamilton-arts-week

Much like myself, these two individuals are coming into very exciting new roles with a great deal of potential – perhaps partially for this reason, the conversation felt expansive and lively on both occasions. Listen, learn, be entertained - and come explore the McMaster Museum of Art (reopening August 24) and Hamilton Arts Week (June 14-21)!