This summer, York University’s Las Nubes EcoCampus in Costa Rica hosted its first-ever Global Eco-Arts Residency, a 10-day intensive course offered by the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (AMPD). Led by Professors Brandon Vickerd and Laura Levin, the residency immersed 25 students in the region’s vibrant cultural and ecological landscape, focusing on community-engaged art projects centred on ecological justice.
“My time in Costa Rica and the Eco-Arts Residency course had a huge impact on my art and research," said Omar Shabbar, a second-year PhD student in the Digital Media program. "One of the main themes of the course was the idea of using art as a tool for environmental advocacy and social-political engagement. Not only did we read about this and discuss it in our classes, but we saw it firsthand through the workshops we participated in.” Shabbar highlighted experiences like visiting Longo Maia, where the group spoke with Guadalupe Urbina, a musician and activist who emphasized the power of art in advocating for the environment and Indigenous rights.
Students lived with local families, engaged with the Alexander Skutch Biological Corridor preserve and participated in activities, including visiting farms and the Boruca Indigenous village. They also contributed to ExpoCOBAS, an annual festival celebrating the biological corridor.
“The class was an amazing experience,” said Danielle Alexander, a fourth-year Visual Arts student. “Being in such a beautiful environment, surrounded by so many kind, creative and friendly people created a welcoming atmosphere. It was so different from the busy, productivity-oriented schedules I was used to in Toronto.” Alexander also noted the transformative impact of the course on her artistic practice, particularly the inspiration to work with natural materials like wood and the creation of comics based on the animals they encountered during hikes.
The course emphasized ethical and meaningful engagement with communities, aligning with AMPD's goal of diversifying education. Students were encouraged to make connections and respond to the realities of the environment, politics and local institutions while producing site-specific works.
“One of the highlights of PANF 3030 was the opportunity for students to connect with a diverse range of artists, activists, farmers and community members to better understand the role of the arts in advocating for environmental stewardship." Said Vickerd.
The Global Eco-Arts Residency at York University’s Costa Rica campus has set a new standard for experiential learning, providing students with invaluable lessons in ethical engagement, community collaboration and ecological justice.