Artist in Residence Program
The Friends United Artist in Residence Program provides Indigenous artists with a place to live, create, collaborate, learn and share knowledge at the Friends United International Convention Centre in Unama’ki, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Through studio work, mentorship, artistic collaboration and time spent living and working on-site, the program supports creative development while encouraging meaningful exchange between artists.
Creating, Learning and Working Together
The Artist in Residence Program gives artists the opportunity to live and work at Friends United while developing their art in a supportive and collaborative environment.
During their stay, artists may work independently, share techniques, learn from one another or take part in mentorship and apprenticeship. The program is not limited to one artistic discipline and reflects the broader Friends United approach of bringing artists together through creativity, exchange and shared experience.
By providing accommodation, workspace, time and opportunities to work alongside others, Friends United supports both individual artistic development and the passing on of knowledge between artists.
Jasyn Lucas – Creating Art at Friends United
Jasyn Lucas has spent time creating and developing his work at Friends United, where artists are provided with space to work as part of the Artist in Residence Program.
His work at the Friends United International Convention Centre reflects the everyday nature of the residency: time to paint, experiment and concentrate on his artistic practice while being part of a community in which artists live and work alongside one another.
Jasyn’s connection with Friends United also extends beyond the Centre. He has represented this spirit of artistic exchange through public painting, educational activities and community events across Nova Scotia.
Shannon Monk – Living and Working at Friends United
Shannon Monk has lived and worked at Friends United as part of the Artist in Residence Program, using the time and space on-site to focus on her artistic practice.
Her residency includes access to dedicated workspace and the opportunity to develop new work in close connection with other artists. The creation of a new glass studio at Friends United expanded these possibilities and supported her work in glass alongside other forms of artistic expression.
Collaboration is also an important part of Shannon’s time at Friends United. Her work with artist Melinda Robertson reflects the exchange of ideas, techniques and experience that the residency program is designed to encourage.
Gerry Sheena – Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing
Gerry Sheena has worked at Friends United on major carving projects, including the creation of totem poles at the Friends United International Convention Centre.
His time at Friends United also demonstrates an important part of the Artist in Residence Program: artists do not only have the opportunity to develop their own work, but can share techniques, experience and knowledge with other artists.
Through his work with Eric Schweig, Gerry’s role developed into mentorship and apprenticeship, with the carving process providing an opportunity for knowledge to be passed on through working together.
Explore Gerry Sheena’s Artist Page
Watch Eric Schweig on Totem Pole Carving with Gerry Sheena
Watch Gerry Sheena discuss Totem Pole Carving and Reconciliation
Eric Schweig – Creative Work, Apprenticeship and Knowledge Sharing
Eric Schweig has lived and worked at Friends United, bringing an established practice in Inuit mask carving and sculpture into the Artist in Residence Program.
During his time at Friends United, his creative work has included mask carving, handcrafted knife making and other hands-on projects. His work with reclaimed steel and traditional carving materials reflects the range of techniques and materials he continues to explore.
His connection with Gerry Sheena has also become an important part of his work at Friends United. Eric has learned monumental totem-pole carving alongside Gerry, combining apprenticeship, collaboration and the direct sharing of carving knowledge.
Beyond his work at the Centre, Eric has also represented Friends United through conversations and public engagements, sharing aspects of his artistic journey, heritage, healing and his experience as an Inuit artist.
Explore Eric Schweig’s Artist Page
More from Friends United
Explore related programs, artists and spaces that support creative exchange, collaboration and Indigenous art at Friends United.