Jennifer Bélanger, Artist – Moncton, NB
Jennifer Bélanger is interested in the accidental observer, and the ordinary and daily as matter for art. Sometimes she thinks art ruined her life. She has a BFA from Université de Moncton and an MFA from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. She has worked as the program coordinator at Galerie Sans Nom and was director of Imago artist-run print studio from 2000 to 2019. She has curated several projects in Acadie and is currently an associate professor in the Fine Arts department (printmaking) at the Université de Moncton. Her solo exhibition 867-5309 is on display at Galerie Murmur until September 19.
Screen shot from Turtles All the Way Down video
This neo-traditional singer-songwriter’s style is reminiscent of old country but with contemporary lyrical content (and not about trucks and girls with short dresses). His storylines include drug experimentation, advice to his son, giant turtles, and his difficulties within the music industry.
Boyle Family Farm Facebook page
Located just on the outskirts of Moncton, Boyle Farm started an outdoor market in March when all the indoor markets closed. I am able to pick up all the local products while visiting some of the animals (there’s an alpaca with a mullet). As a result I am now even more focused on where my food and products come from.
- Printmaking Distance Learning and Printhackers Facebook groups
Kits I prepared and sent out to my students in March
I was hired as the printmaking professor at Université de Moncton in June of 2019. Teaching printmaking at a distance is like teaching a cooking class without a kitchen. I am very thankful for these Facebook groups and all the information professors have shared through the months to help with the technical challenges and support.
- Walking
A watercolour I did in April
Long distance walking recently became a daily ritual. I discover new neighbourhoods while attempting to manage my stress. I see a lot of elderly people and children staring out of their windows. They wave hello. I wave back, not knowing if it makes me incredibly sad or happy.
The Death of Seneca by an unknown Flemish artist (after Peter Paul Rubens and Cornellis Gallee the Elder), possibly 17th Century
This is a collection of writings on death by the stoic philosopher Seneca the Younger. He speaks of how life is but a journey towards death and how we must prepare to die, and to die well. Although I am not completely convinced, I appreciate the idea of letting go of something wholly out of our control.