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Talking Wellness

A project & exhibition by Pam Patterson's Art and Design Education (ADEL): Community class, in collaboration with OCAD U Health & Wellness Centre & the Library's Learning Zone, Fall 2018

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OCAD U will add an additional Health and Wellness site to the main building for emergency and accessibility needs staffed with a nurse and a counselor. OCADU will host bi-monthly Health and Wellness Workshops and informational seminars that will encompass both theoretical and practical knowledge to inform students on their emotional, physical and mental health and self-care tactics. - Kais Padamshi

OCAD U’s Mission Statement will finally be achievable: the university will be an inclusive, diverse, accessible and open culture which will fuel innovative structures. Supportive structures will surround Health and Wellness and OCADU will empower its students and reduce other barriers that do ot support student wellness. - Kais Padamshi

 

Artist Bio and Statement

I am Kais Padamshi, a Third Year Drawing and Painting student at OCAD who advocates for professional development and opportunities for OCAD students to advance their careers through the OCAD Student Union. My first solo professional development project was hosting a panel talk with three Gallery Directors for the Drawing and Painting Department entitled “How to Survive The Art World”. I organized  talks concerning; professional practice, pricing, self-promotion, etc for emerging visual artists. In addition, an interest that parallels the Talking Wellness Exhibit, mental health and awareness advocacy has been one of my main focuses. With colleagues, I created a project called “Willows for Wellness” a project founded upon mental health awareness and advocacy through art exhibits and interactive workshops and by providing a safe space for community gathering and discussion.