2023 Keith and Win Shantz International Research Scholarship lecture

Jill Smith

interned with artist Ariel Schlesinger first in New York City, and later in Berlin

“My time in New York with Ariel was filled with the excitement and chaos that you would only expect in such a city! Rushing from studio to museum to delicious food spots to openings - art life in New York is always moving. It was the moments where I had the chance to slow down a bit and get to know a new process or a new person that felt extra special. Continuing to work with Ariel, but from abroad in Berlin, I had an experience quite different from New York. Both cities, with their dense but very different Jewish histories, were environments in which I felt connection and community. I feel so grateful to have had the experience of working with Ariel, learning new skills through our collaboration and workshops, and to do so in parts of the world that are deeply entwined with my cultural identity.

Charlie Star 

interned at Harvestworks Digital Media Art Center in New York City

“During my 4-week internship with Harvestworks, I assisted with exhibition installations and gallery attending for two group exhibitions: the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) Exhibition (June 9-18) and “The Process” (June 30-August 27). 

I also assisted with performance production and recording for six experimental electronic music performances as part of their evening music series held on Governor’s Island. This image features Anaïs Maviel, Rashaan Carter & Mimi A. during a live performance. 

Interning with an artist-run centre allowed me to work and meet a range of diverse artists, and it expanded my awareness of the dimensions and possibilities of making art with electronic and digital media. I hadn’t spent such a lengthy time in New York before, and I am very grateful to the Shantz Foundation for their generous scholarship, which also supported my exploration of the city’s creative spaces, people and cultures.”

Behnaz Fatemi

travelled to London, England, to intern with artist Diogo Pimentão

“My internship was a transformative chapter in my life. Traveling alone overseas was a leap of faith, but the true magic lay in collaborating with Diogo. We delved into deep discussions about contemporary drawing and its connection with performance and sculpture. Living with Diogo’s family and connecting with his wife Joana was like finding a family. Our conversations blended art, politics, life, and everything in between.

London itself was a canvas of inspiration—galleries, museums, and the breathtaking Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Seeing artworks that I have revered in person was a surreal experience! I owe immense gratitude to Diogo for his mentorship and the Shantz Foundation for allowing me this invaluable opportunity.”

Ashley Beerdat

travelled to England to intern with artists Rebecca Scott and Jade Fadojutimi

“My Shantz experience broadened my realities of being a full-time artist. I was able to meet a lot of artists and learn about their journeys and art practices. Living in Cumbria with Rebecca Scott and Mark Woods I gained an appreciation for this new landscape on the Lake District that was facing challenges of  sustainability due to the privatization of water. I enjoyed connecting with nature through hikes and also the amazing family who welcomed me into their life. 

Additionally, I interned in London, England, at a studio I had been dreaming about. I helped mix different  paints and make materials for the artist. The studio provided me with a space to work and I was able to try unique oil paints and mediums that allowed me to paint faster and expand my mark making. I learned about colours that I did not know about before and built gigantic stretchers that inspired me to paint larger. This experience gave me hope that this life is possible and to not give up on my dreams.”