ALGONQUIN COLLEGE
Algonquin College student art transforms space with climate and Indigenous dialogue

On Nov. 13, Algonquin College hosted an Indigenous-led climate dialogue that inspired 55 Illustration and Concept Art students. Their murals and AR activations remain on display in DARE District until mid-December.  

The day began with a powerful multigenerational dialogue featuring Chuck Commanda, master canoe builder and Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, Vanessa Stevens, Indigenous counsellor from the Mamidosewin Centre, and Amenda Soucy, Inuk student entrepreneur from the Business Management and Entrepreneurship program. Throughout their discussion, they invited employees, learners, and community members to reflect on our shared responsibilities to the land and to future generations.  

The conversation laid the groundwork for 55 Illustration and Concept Art learners to transform the first and second floors of Algonquin College's DARE District (Building C). Using 574 paint markers, 8 VR headsets, AR elements, and Makerspace tools, they responded to the teachings with vibrant murals, immersive activations, and portfolio-ready work centered on climate action. "Using technology and art was an exciting way for the students to expand their canvases - I've never seen students more excited about creating art for an assignment ever before in my 10 years of teaching experience," said Chris Dainty, Program Coordinator, Illustration and Concept Art at Algonquin College.  

Through the Social Innovation Lab and the Makerspace, this project became an experiential learning activity. It provided students with new tools, immersive in-class experiences, and portfolio-ready work rooted in climate action and Indigenous perspectives. 

Cause a Scene was championed by the Social Innovation Lab. Senior Program Manager, Kevin Holmes reflected on the impressive work learners created while touring the newly decorated building. "This amazing student work raises awareness about climate change and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but also creates a dynamic, visual and educational experience that will inspire the Algonquin College community to take climate action," said Holmes. 

This initiative was funded through a CICan Climate micro grant and delivered by the Social Innovation Lab and the Algonquin College Makerspace. 

Interviews with participating student artists, project leads, and student content creators can be accommodated, as well as tours of the completed murals prior to their takedown in mid-December.