The Conservation Council of New Brunswick is thrilled to announce the newest additions to our From Harm to Harmony, Community-Engaged Artist-in-Residence and Mentorship Program. We are pleased to welcome Stephen Hero, a hip hop artist from Saint John, Shoshanna Wingate, a poet from Sackville, and Mario Doiron, a painter from Saint-Paul.
The From Harm to Harmony artist in residency and mentorship program is designed to support artists who are committed to using their talents to promote environmental advocacy, community engagement, and education. These artists will work with local communities to raise awareness about environmental issues such as energy poverty and affordability, building community-owned energy, and the need for a just transition of our energy system. Their time with the Conservation Council will culminate with a community-engaged art event that will encourage New Brunswickers to take action to protect our planet and provide them with an avenue to do so.
Stephen Hero, known for his powerful lyrics and dynamic performances, will use his artistry to connect with young people and inspire them to consider complex problems in their communities. With his finger on the pulse of Saint John’s youth culture, Stephen Hero will create hip-hop workshops that incorporate energy poverty education and activism.
Shoshanna Wingate, former Poet Laureate of Sackville, New Brunswick, uses story to explore our relationship to nature and to each other. Her work will focus on the power of reclaiming our stories, for the past, the present, and the future. How do we use story to resist? How do we create a new story for the future? Shoshanna is excited to collaborate with community members to develop new stories that inspire action. She will explore the “No Shale Gas” movement through the process of envisioning a world of renewable and just energy and abundance.
Mario Doiron is a painter, storyteller and graphic artist whose work reflects his deep connection to the landscape of his community in Kent. Through his art, Doiron hopes to inspire people to appreciate the beauty of nature and to take action to protect it. Doiron will work with local organizations to lead a community-engaged art project that highlights the importance of community energy projects.
Community-engaged art is a powerful tool for social change. By working with artists who are committed to promoting environmental advocacy, community engagement, and education, we can create a more sustainable future for all.
The Conservation Council is committed to supporting the arts and promoting environmental awareness in our communities. We are excited to welcome Stephen Hero, Shoshanna Wingate, and Mario Doiron to our From Harm to Harmony residency and we look forward to seeing the positive impact that their work will have on our communities.