Kwantlen Polytechnic University is welcoming an Indigenous writer-in-residence and an Indigenous artist-in-residence for the fall semester. Both positions support other artists and writers in the research and creation of new works.
They are also available for faculty, staff and students to receive consultations on research projects, as well as hosting events for all to attend.
Molly Cross-Blanchard is the Indigenous writer-in-residence and Á’a:líya Warbus is the Indigenous artist-in-residence.
“Both Molly and Á'a:líya have made significant contributions through their creative practices, and we are delighted to be working alongside them this fall through their sharing of their works and dialogue,” says Dr. Shelley Boyd, dean in the Faculty of Arts at KPU.
“We are excited for the upcoming events, classroom visits, and individual consultations as Molly and Á'a:líya engage with the KPU community of students, faculty, and staff.”
“When I was a student, we had an Indigenous writer-in-residence whose presence in the institution impacted my writing and career immensely,” says Cross-Blanchard.
“I was unaware that I wasn’t being understood as an artist until she came in and understood me. If I can do that for even one student while I’m here, it will all have been worth it.”
Cross-Blanchard has mainly worked in publishing and is now a sessional instructor in the creative writing department at KPU.
“I wouldn’t say that my Indigeneity ‘influences’ my work because all of my work comes from a place of being Indigenous, whether I’m writing about blood quantum, or breakups, or Zac Efron,” she adds.
She is hoping to use this position to talk about writing with students, to offer feedback on their work, or just to chat with them.
“I’m already a huge fan of KPU. Everyone I’ve met has been so welcoming and warm that it wasn’t hard to start feeling at home here.”
Warbus, who is of Stó:lō descent, grew up on the Skowkale First Nation in Chilliwack. With a background in film production from the University of British Columbia, she has worked for nearly twenty years as youth advocate and media specialist for her community. As an artist, she is a song writer and hip hop artist who has paired her love for writing and directing in documentary and fiction work.
“It's an incredible blessing to be recognized for my artistic contributions to my community and the KPU community as well” says Warbus. “As a working artist this gives me a chance to focus on my art more wholeheartedly as well as share what I've learned with students and faculty on my journey. I'm humbled and excited to be given this opportunity.”
Warbus says her Indigenous background has inspired her work.
“It is the place from which I write and create from to share my unique world view and lived experience,” she adds.
“My greatest hope is that I have some impact on the students and greater community of KPU that is positive for Indigenous people, and anyone interested in the arts.”
The Indigenous writer-in-residence and Indigenous artist-in-residence will be at KPU for the fall semester.