This week, we held our first major meeting of the year, centered on transforming creative concepts into workable projects. We had an in-depth discussion on how to conceptualize, design, and activate community art projects. A key takeaway was that every idea is unique, requiring careful planning and adaptability to grow. We learned that it’s essential to expect changes and trust the process. This is especially critical for our upcoming summer residency program, which focuses on fostering independent artistic ventures.
In the program this week, we explored 3D storytelling, using THREE.js—an open-source, cross-browser JavaScript library and API. We’re learning to create interactive and immersive digital spaces where viewers can actively engage with the art. This is different from many traditional art forms, such as theater or film, where content remains fixed, and the audience merely consumes it. Our goal is to allow an audience to participate in the storytelling process, making the experience dynamic.
The week’s theme also focused on differentiated instruction and its relevance to arts programs. Jamie Bell, a founding member of our collective and the Winnipeg Arts Incubator, presented on this concept on January 8, 2024. His session explored how this approach helps align artists’ interests and aspirations while developing transferable skills. This theme became the foundation for practical activities within many of our programs over the years, particularly in the internship/mentorship aspects.
Additionally, we introduced a new short course called “Arts, Data, and Immersive Storytelling,” which merges art, data, and technology. This is a short course, where artists will learn how to interpret complex data using tools like OpenAI’s APIs and Three.js. This project builds on a 2021-2022 pilot funded by the Canada Council for the Arts Digital Greenhouse, exploring how digital tools can be used for creative expression and climate storytelling.
What we’ve learned so far
A recurring theme this week was the role of art in fostering community spirit, which can be woven into future internship and mentorship programs. Interns could be involved in community artwork or event planning, gaining insights not only into art but also into the importance of community engagement and collaboration. This hands-on experience could help interns produce artwork that brings people together, integrating art and community. These skills are crucial in today’s increasingly cross-disciplinary and community-oriented art world.
Another area we’re having fun with is using technology like THREE.js, where future arts programs could push boundaries and encourage innovation in artistic expression. Interns could work on digital art creation, virtual reality, and augmented reality projects, all of which are growing areas in the art world. We could also integrate skills like music, animation, lighting, and CAD into these programs, allowing artists to create their own 3D artwork in collaborative environments. These projects would challenge artistic norms and introduce fresh perspectives, enabling interns to evolve traditional art forms and create new ones. For example, an intern could use THREE.js to project a digital art piece that morphs in response to the viewer’s movements, offering a unique interactive experience!
Incorporating differentiated instruction into arts programs is essential. This means giving interns more space to explore their artistic interests while providing guidance and challenging them to find innovative solutions to approaching challenges. This also helps develop unique artistic abilities and sparks new ideas.
We also talked about how we can apply the skills we learned about in this week’s activities, especially in community projects. Indigenous Knowledge Keepers can apply these kinds of skills when creating or preserving traditional works. This encourages innovation while maintaining cultural traditions. Taking part in training, apprenticeships, and mentorships, other Indigenous artists and arts organizations can expand their creative practices, integrate new technologies, and reach wider audiences.
Digital art tools also provide new platforms for Manitoba artists to tell their stories in immersive, self-determined ways. Through virtual exhibitions or workshops, all these new technologies can help showcase Indigenous culture, helping boost accurate representation. Building more technology into opportunities for emerging and young Indigenous artists can allow us to gain skills in technology and art, empowering them to create impactful works.
For example, an artist could use these tools to create a virtual space that represents their culture’s traditions, making it accessible to a global audience, not just a small town or neighbourhood.