Founded in 2008 by the Nocturne: Art at Night Society, Nocturne is a free, contemporary art festival that occurs annually in Kjipuktuk/Halifax, showcasing a variety of local art all over the city. Nocturne aims to present critical and relevant art events in an accessible manner to anybody who wants to participate. This year, the festival ran from Oct. 12-15.
The Fairest Order in the World by Sameer Farooq
The first stop on the journey was the Dalhousie Art Gallery. Volunteers led visitors through a series of creative writing prompts that engaged with the work of Sameer Farooq’s exhibition, The Fairest Order in the World.
The quiet space allowed me to reflect on the artwork, drawing my attention to the smallest details. On display were ceramics of all kinds, from sculptures of onions to raindrops to vases. Although the creative writing prompts were specific to Nocturne, this exhibit runs until Dec. 22.
I highly encourage those interested to visit. Seeing these ceramics in person is truly a delight.
Future Fragments by Michael MacLean and Jen Frail
By the Halifax Central Library was Future Fragments, a participatory quilt by Michael MacLean and Jen Frail, the lead artists. This installation empowers Millbrook First Nation youth and community members to express their dreams through mixed-media art. The quilt aims to capture individual and collective stories, fostering engagement through the collaborative nature of bringing this art to life.
I particularly enjoyed the textural nature of this piece. Seeing the different materials woven together to form beautiful star shapes reinforces the goal of the installation.
Leave a Mark by Dalhousie architecture students
Leave a Mark, created by the Dalhousie School of Architecture’s students, was my first encounter with an interactive installation. This piece presents visitors with the opportunity to reflect on the impact a community has on the environment it inhabits.
As I walked through the structure, it reminded me of a spider web, and there were parts I had to duck through to avoid getting stuck. It is a fun and mesmerizing piece, and a great way to involve Nocturne-goers.
Killim by Roda Medhat
Killlim by artist Roda Medhat was the biggest installation I encountered. By the waterfront, this installation is an inflatable representation of a traditional nomadic Kurdish tent, adorned with intricate textiles. The piece confronts the Western concept of progress and unsustainable constructions by portraying a sustainable, nomadic lifestyle.
The tent was incredible to see in person, looming at a height of at least 25 feet. The textiles are beautiful and prompted me to think about ways to be more sustainable in my day-to-day life.
Ferry-O-Ke!!!
The highlight of my night was Ferry-O-Ke!!! Participants journeyed across Halifax Harbour to Dartmouth, N.S. and then back, all while singing karaoke together.
Groups sang and danced, and it was wonderful to experience. This event truly showcases the community that thrives in Halifax.
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