A view of the winning design from KPMB Architects with Omar Gandhi, Jordan Bennett Studio, Elder Lorraine Whitman , Public Work and Transsolar for the new Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. - ContributedTyler Colbourne is a queer settler and social worker in Punamukwatijk who works in community mental health and addictions. He is passionate about social justice, politics, creative arts, and finding ways to embrace whimsy, even when times are tough.
This week, Houston was quoted as saying, “I’m a big believer in the value of arts to society and to our community.” That was followed by, “But I’m an even stronger believer in making sure that we run an effective government that focuses on the everyday needs of Nova Scotians as they sit now.” When the news release was sent out saying that the art gallery project had been put on hold, Houston is quoted as saying, “Now is not the time.
As a young queer person growing up in the Annapolis Valley, I turned to the arts for safety. The arts are where I found resistance and hope. As I grew older and moved to the city, the arts were where I made friends, found community and expanded my awareness about complex social issues. I’ve come a long way from drawing superheroes as a means of escaping homophobia and bullying, but I still know that the arts are a vital part of a thriving community and province.
Thanks for sharing.