The Gales Gallery at York University recently hosted Pura Vida, an exhibition celebrating the creative reflections of students from York University’s School of the Arts, Performance, Media and Design (AMPD) on their experience at the Las Nubes EcoCampus.
The exhibition featured works created in the Performing Arts and the Natural Environment (PANF) course, co-taught by Professors Brandon Vickerd and Laura Levin. This course took students on a journey to Costa Rica, where they engaged with the region’s rich cultural and ecological landscape, exploring themes of environmental and community-based art along with the ethics of community engagement.
Running from October 28 to November 8, 2024, Pura Vida offered visitors a glimpse into the natural beauty and ecological significance of Costa Rica. From striking photographs and multimedia installations to intricate sculptures and paintings, each piece told a unique story of the students’ time at the EcoCampus.
“Participating in PANF 3030, I saw how deeply rooted art is within a community and how knowledge is shared from one generation to the next,” says Gaby, a fourth-year Dance student. “As an artist, I connected with my body, the space around me and the core of who I am.”
At the opening reception on November 6, students had the opportunity to discuss their creative process and the impact of Costa Rica’s landscape on their work.
“This program showed me that we are there to learn and grow,” says Sarah, a student in the Visual Arts – Studio program. “The best thing an artist can do it remain receptive to different ways of life while valuing the knowledge and experiences of others.”
“When creating art with global and environmental themes, it is important to keep respect and empathy for everyone you meet and the land you’re on,” says Danielle Alexander, a fourth-year student in the Visual Arts and Art History department.
The Pura Vida exhibition demonstrated how AMPD students are broadening their artistic perspectives while thoughtfully engaging with global and environmental issues. The course PANF 3030 Eco Arts Residency taking place at York's Las Nubes Campus will be offered again in May 2025. Students can find more information here: https://lasnubes.euc.yorku.ca/courses/global-eco-arts-residency/