MISSA is all about the magic that happens when like-spirited folks who love art and the creative process gather together. View the calendar below for workshop dates, times and special events where students and faculty have the opportunity to connect, make art and socialize over the 2 weeks.
Every year, the Metchosin International Summer School of the Arts (MISSA) has recognized a member of the arts community who, through the calibre of their work and commitment, have made a significant difference to the growth and development of arts and culture in British Columbia.
2018 Ambassador of the Arts – Susan Point
SUSAN A. POINT O.C., DFA., RCA., D.Litt. is a descendant of the Musqueam people; she is the daughter of Edna Grant and Anthony Point.
Susan inherited the values of her culture and traditions of her people by her mother Edna– who learned by her mother, Mary Charlie-Grant
“I continue trying to push myself one step beyond my goals, or one step in a new direction so often. There is always another stride to make. My art is never really finished; there is just a point where I have to stop myself.
This applies to my whole life; therefore my artwork is evolving all of the time. New situations, new experiences have always played fundamental roles in my art, an example is my sometimes-playful use of colour after a tropical retreat and my embraced understanding of my ancestral visual language.
Thirty years ago I was re-introducing ancestral artefacts; I am now pushing my artistic boundaries in every contemporary sense. While, the most valued part of my artwork remains the same, my mark, and I leave this with every brushstroke, every- whittle of wood, every line that I leave, I insist is just the way I meant it. That is my signature.
From the time when I pulled silkscreens on my kitchen table, I have stayed the course because my family helps me. All of my children are artists, and my grandchildren are too.
I am obliged to lead them by example– Coast Salish art has forever been a way to honour and remember significant details of our social lives. My hope is that my children remember to tell not only our cultural accounts, but also their own stories as well.”
The following have been recognized in the past as Ambassadors of the Arts:
Jack Shadbolt | Myfanwy Pavelic | Jack Wise | Murray Adaskin | Carole Sabiston, O.B.C. | Rosita Tovell | Mavor Moore | Colin Graham | Fran Willis | PK Page | Bill West | Pat Martin-Bates | Walter Dexter | Lorna Crozier, O.C. | Patrick Lane | Norman Yates | The Newman Family: Victor, Edith, Marion and Carey | Martin Segger | Valdy | Robin Hopper | Shelagh Rogers | William Zuk | Gary Karr
Silent Auction
This silent auction of faculty artwork is the biggest fundraising event during MISSA and each year it produces a range of beautiful and unique art pieces! Past and present MISSA faculty generously donate their art and contribute to a display table in the dining hall that grows over the two weeks. The auction culminates on the final evening of MISSA and there have been bidding wars known to happen over coveted pieces. What better way to take away a piece of art from your favourite art teacher and support MISSA at the same time.
Student Art
This is an opportunity to take home a piece of your fellow participants’ artwork. MISSA students generously donate a piece of their own artwork and a draw is made at the end of each week. Tickets are available by donation.
MISSA Mugs
A highlight every year is to pick up your very own “MISSA mug” to enjoy a beverage while you are on campus. There are so many sizes and designs to choose from! The mugs are a great memento of your time at MISSA and they make wonderful gifts too. The mugs are donated by past and present students and the money raised goes directly to the MISSA Ceramics Program.
MISSA Merch
There is a merchandise table that operates during MISSA that offers a range of items for sale including aprons, tote bags, t-shirts, zip- hoodies and sweatshirts. A sign will be posted with store hours.
