In recent years, the students at Earl Haig have often had the valuable opportunity to meet guest artists. The insight and inspiration they have shared has encouraged our students to pursue the arts beyond high school. Every time an established artist comes to Earl Haig and speaks about life as an artist, our students gain knowledge and ideas that could not possibly be taught in a classroom. Several visits over the past few years stand out, as they were extremely valuable and entertaining.
This October marked the anticipated visit of the well-known writer, director and animator, Cameron Hood. Hood, a former student of both Claude Watson School for the Arts and Earl Haig, made the trip all the way from Los Angeles, California to speak at an assembly. At the assembly, he screened a few of his exceptional works, the first of which was entitled First Flight. The film showcased Hood’s gift as an animator and as an artist, pairing a flawless soundtrack with captivating visuals. Undoubtedly, seeing professional work that was deconstructed and explained by its creator was an experience that could not have been attained inside a classroom. Hood also spent time talking about the path he took to becoming an artist, which was invaluable information for students looking to pursue careers in the arts.
Fortunately for Earl Haig students, Hood was not the first guest speaker to have left such an impact on the school. In 2010, students met singer Saidah Baba Talibah, also a former graduate of the Claude Watson Arts Program. Not surprisingly, they were entranced by her sultry voice and soulful musical style. Despite Talibah’s fun teenage spirit, her knowledge and experience gave the impression that she was a seasoned and worldly artist. Aspiring musicians in the audience hung on her every word about the music industry and what it means to be a performing artist.
Furthermore, in 2009, three Ojibwe elders came to speak to Earl Haig students about the environment and their relationship to the Earth. They shared with us their personal experiences and philosophies on the state of our planet. Students had an enjoyable time learning about the Ojibwe’s way of life, and had the opportunity to personally work on Native crafts with the speakers. Though students have the opportunity to learn about First Nations culture in school, the personal element of the elders’ teachings made the experience far more valuable than any standard history lesson.
The insight, inspiration, and knowledge that these guest speakers share with Earl Haig students is invaluable and enriches their high school experience. Whatever discipline an Earl Haig student plans to pursue, chances are that they will have the opportunity to meet a professional in their field. There is no doubt that the student benefits immensely from this experience, and so it is clear that Earl Haig should continue its tradition of inviting successful artists and academics to share their wealth of knowledge.
