“Works to work is a one of a kind program that necessitates a hands-on approach to exhibit production. Through this program I have gained invaluable skills in building, installing, networking, teaching, problem solving, and much, much more. The program is fast paced and practical. It allowed me the opportunity to try things I have never done before while also recognizing my personal strengths and experience. This flexible format allowed me to gain more experience in the areas where I was most interested.”

-- Betty Jo McCarville, Production Stream, Festivals 2007, 2008, 2009
Betty Jo has attended Concordia University, Montreal (BFA) and St.Thomas University, Fredricton (Bed)


“I have found the Works to Work Internship Program to be valuable for the development of my professional life as an artist and arts administrator. The work is intense, but is extremely fulfilling as I get to see thousands of people, who don't normally step into a gallery, interact with art.”  

-- Grace Law, Curatorial Stream, Festivals 2007, 2008, 2009
Grace has attended: University of Alberta (BFA) and is currently attending Grant MacEwan University - Arts & Cultural Management Certificate Program


“The Works Art & Design Festival continues to provide me with the opportunity to stay involved and give back to the Edmonton arts community. The challenges are equal to the rewards with the memorable experiences helping shape my understanding of a working artist practice. Being a part of the team that helps organize the festival is full of continual surprises and laughs.”

-- Eric Burton, Production Stream, Festivals 2004, 2005. 2006, 2007, 2009
Eric has attended Red Deer College and the University of Alberta (BFA)


“Through my experiences with the Works to Work program I have gained a greater understanding of the setup and dismantle of a large scale international art and design festival. The hands on environment and fast pace of the festival applies all of the theoretical classroom work and problem solving skills into actual situations. In addition to all of the learning, I have met and become great friends with the many people I have worked with through the festival.”

-- Robert Harpin, Production Stream, Festivals 2008, 2009
Robert has attended Grant MacEwan University and the Alberta College of Art & Design (BFA)


“Handling works of art, public speaking, working in a group, operating power tools and building things from scratch are just a few of the many things I did with the Works to Work internship last summer. It was an amazing experience that I will value for a long time, and the many friendships formed that will stay with me forever. It's the people that make the Works to Work so special!”

-- Kelsey Fraser, Production Stream, Festival 2009

Kelsey is currently attending the Alberta College of Art & Design (BFA)


“I think back to my time at The Works as my first, personal exposure to the real art world beyond art school. The Works made me get my hands dirty as part of the bigger art picture. It made me care (and learn) about other contemporary art/artists. I remember late nights, laughter, pride in our accomplishments, and community.  I'm indebted to The Works; it made me a better artist.”

-- Andy Davies, Production Stream, Festival 2004, 2005
Andy has attended Red Deer College and the University of Lethbridge (BFA)


“As the festival animator I lived the festival from the inside as well as from the outside. Prior to the actual festival I worked along with the curatorial and production teams and got a grasp of what's involved in the organization of a festival of this size.  During the festival days, my role was to promote the festival to the public for which I had many interesting interviews and discussions with artists, staff members and visitors and I got to visit all the exhibits and events.  At night I would write my contributions for the website. Long days and short nights, but an awesome experience all together.”

-- Saskia van Alphen, Writer/Animator, Festival 2009
Saskia attended the Universidad de Palermo, Argentina (University of Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina) (BSocSc)


“I learned many useful skills relating to building gallery spaces and installing artwork. The interaction with artists was also great experience. The Works to Work program was extremely beneficial to my development as an artist and art Preparator.”

-- Tim Rechner, Production Stream, Festivals 2001, 2003
Tim attended Red Deer College and Nova Scotia School of Art & Design (BFA)


“Being a part of the Works to Work program was an incredible opportunity to prepare for graduate studies. It was a unique experience in which to do physically and creatively challenging work with an amazing group of people. There was great emphasis on professional development and personal initiative, in addition to the practical skills I learned as a part of the production team.”

-- Mandy Espezel, Production Stream, Festival 2009
Mandy has attended the University of Alberta (BFA) and currently attending the University of Lethbridge (MFA)


“My summers in The Works to Works program were full of laughter, friendships, and learning. We got to learn a diverse variety of skills and were able to put our new skill set into immediate action. It was an incredible hands on experience and a unique opportunity.  We also had the opportunity to be introduced and exposed to an arts community and build life long friendships.”

-- Gina Shields, Production Stream, Festivals 2004, 2008, 2009
Gina has attended Red Deer College and Nova Scotia School of Art & Design (BFA)


“I am attending the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University, where I am in my 3rd year pursuing my Interdisciplinary Degree. I feel the Works to Work experience benefited me in the wide range of exposure to artwork, engagement with practicing artists, and time management in completing projects on schedule. I came away with confidence in myself and the skills to further my artwork and career.”

-- Lynette de Monreil - Production Stream, Festival 2009
Lynette has attended Red Deer College and currently attending Nova Scotia College of Art & Design (BFA)


"I wouldn't say that W2W changed my life but it was indeed a highlight. It was my first time to be a part in an arts festival and Works to Work gave me the taste in life that I was longing for so long in Canada. For me, the best part was being with the local artists and getting inspired by them."

-- Janella Angcaco, Marketing/Special Events Stream, Festival 2009
Janella attended the Grant MacEwan University Arts & Cultural Management Program


“Being a part of The Works dynamic team was the highlight of my year. My internship solidified my interest in and passion for Edmonton's arts community. I was able to form vibrant friendships with the other interns, artists and volunteers while witnessing all of our hard work pay off in the best way!”

Shannon Bowler, Volunteer Stream, Festival 2009
Shannon is currently attending Grant MacEwan Arts and Cultural Administration Program


“The Works to Works program was great in helping me further my understanding of art and artists. The friendships and acquired skills gained are invaluable and unlike any other opportunity available. I will always remember the experiences and look back on them fondly. “

Glyn Evans-Percy, Marketing Stream, Festival 2009
Glyn attended the NAIT Business Program