Benefits of Critique

As part of the Prairie Webinar Series, CARFAC Alberta, CARFAC Saskatchewan and CARFAC Manitoba are pleased to present: BENEFITS OF CRITIQUE with Joanne Bolen & Justin Seiji Waddell

The Prairie Webinar Series is proud to prioritize the expertise of artists working in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, promoting discussion with our provincial neighbours on various topics while sharing investment in prairie perspectives. The formula is simple: look forward to two 25-minute presentations from two artists speaking to their practice and their experience with a given discussion topic, followed by a 30-minute Q&A period.

JOANNE BOLEN is a Saskatchewan-born artist who explores thoughts, emotions, and desires through a variety of materials and mediums. She developed a love for drawing in childhood and later studied art at the University of Saskatchewan, continuing her education through workshops and self-directed projects. Joanne's work includes painting in acrylics and oils, as well as printmaking and textile arts. Her style, influenced by Fauvism and Expressionism, uses bold colors to evoke emotional responses.

In addition to her personal art practice, Joanne plays a significant role in her local arts community. She joined the Melfort Arts Council in 2003, a decision that shaped her involvement in the arts beyond her own work. In 2020, she stepped into the role of Chairperson, helping to revitalize the council during a critical time. Under her leadership, the council has focused on rebuilding its presence in the region, organizing events, and supporting local artists. Joanne is passionate about fostering creativity and cultural engagement in her community, and she is committed to making the arts more accessible to everyone. She believes that with continued effort, Northeast Saskatchewan can grow into a vibrant arts hub, attracting talent and attention from far beyond the region.

JUSTIN SEIJI WADDELL is an artist and Associate Professor at the Alberta University of the Arts in Mohkinstsis. He is a board member of CARFAC National, Peripheral Review, C the Visual Art Foundation, the New Media Caucus, the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation, and the Arts, Culture, and Education Committee (ACE) of the National Association of Japanese Canadians. In 2025, he will be an Artist in Residence with Studio Kura in Fukuoka, Japan, and he is currently an Artist in Residence with the Past Wrongs, Future Choices as a part of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Project and the Centre for Asia Pacific Initiatives at the University of Victoria.