Alison MacTaggart
Dip. Arts (Camosun), B.F.A. (SFU), M.F.A. (York)
As an artist my installation work bridges the disciplines of Sculpture, Drawing, and Writing. My artwork evolves from conceptual concerns and although not explicitly expressed in the material embodiment, these concerns directly inform the making. I am equally interested in ideas, process, materials, and craft.
My approach to teaching is informed by my experience as a student, teacher, and as an artist. It is informed by my children who remind me daily of the importance of play. Former teachers and colleagues at KPU inspire me to achieve a balance of direction, skill-building, independence, dialogue, and exchange.
I encourage students to develop their voice, push parameters, and consider their decisions. I believe this prepares students for careers in which independent and creative thinking are invaluable.
I completed my MFA in 2006 and received awards and grants from the BC Arts Council, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and the Canada Council for the Arts. I was the recipient of the Faculty of Arts Teaching Award in 2021 and occupied the role of Chair in Fine Arts from 2022 to 2025.
Courses taught
- FINA 1100: Introduction to Drawing
- FINA 1131: Sculpture I
- FINA 1167: Visual Language: Making and Meaning
- FINA 1175: Form, Structure and Materials
- FINA 1200: Drawing II
- FINA 1231: Sculpture II
- FINA 2331: Sculpture III
- FINA 3100: Advanced Studio Practice and Seminar I
- FINA 3111: Professional Practices
- FINA 3200: Advanced Studio Practice and Seminar II
- FINA 4300: Advanced Studio Practice and Thesis I
- FINA 4400: Advanced Studio Practice and Thesis II
Areas of Interest
- Sculpture
- Drawing
- Language
- Text-based Art
- Humour