Students, artists share NSCAD studio time

Local artists like printmaker Lois Ward are always spending time in the studio, where they can get their projects finished.

“A typical day there started at about 10 a.m. and went to 3 or 4 p.m.,” Ward says. “I would set the type then proof it as a step in ensuring the text was on the page in a pleasing design.”

For Ward, the studio is not her own and she is always sharing with students. Ward is one of three artisans who are registered in NSCAD University’s open studio service this term. The school’s Continuing Studies Department opens NSCAD facilities to artists so they can work on continuing projects.

Leslie Menagh, a program assistant in the department, says open studio is a place where artisans can work independently.

Ward uses the Dawson Printshop, one of 11 facilities available year-round. She signed up for seven weeks to work on a printmaking project involving pressing panels of wood against relief prints she designed herself.

Seven weeks passed quickly and Ward still had to finish her task. Even though the facilities are available every day and around the clock, Ward had to find time to use the service. “Hours of operation during the summer were only during the business day, which means I have to take vacation days off work to use it,” says Ward.

Her project required several hours on a weekday and time on the weekends. And as September began, Ward has to adjust to the high demand from incoming students.

A school official insists NSCAD has a handle on the situation. “I don’t think priority is a good word (to use) in this particular program,” says Jaci Clements, director of continuing studies.

An authorization form, found on the NSCAD website, helps the department organize space in the studios. Clements says registrations are limited to accommodate all participants.

“Authorization is given to people who meet the criteria that the academic area has set up and then it’s based on whether there is space to accommodate the person,” says Clements.

As for Ward, her seven weeks in the print shop are coming to a close. But she intends to work hard, because she adores the open studio for its flexibility and comfort.

“I am aware of a studio run by some younger, recently graduated people that is available for rental for screen printing but this is not my medium of expression,” she says.  

“Plus it seems a bit too hip for my age. I'm not sure I'd fit in very well.”

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