Faces of Antyx: Richard

Richard

Executive Artistic Director

We thought we would wrap up our Faces of Antyx Staff segment with our Executive Artistic Director, Richard! Thank you for being our fearless leader and making Antyx what it is today.

Q: What has your experience been like working with Antyx?  

A: It has been an incredibly interesting ride. I get to support young people to become creative, engaged adults. I work alongside amazing community organizations, all kinds of amazing artists and a really talented caring staff team. Together we open new possibilities for the youth in our programs and make art that brings communities together. 

Q: Is there a memory that stands out to you? 

A: A couple for sure. Amazing projects-the Forest Lawn Natural Playground, Culture Shock Dance Competition, Eyes on The Avenue-huge portraits of the great folks in Forest Lawn. I will always remember our first staff meeting in the new year-reading tarot cards for the Antyx Team-looking ahead. 

Q: What is your favourite thing about your career? 

A: I have been able to work as an educator, artist, counsellor, community developer and manager. All my work focussed on finding creative ways for people to grow and make their community/world fairer and better. 

Q: What was the biggest opposing force that you encountered on your creative journey? 

A: That so many people learn to believe that they are not spontaneous, creative or artistic. I wish more people would love doing “Artsy fartsy, touchy feely” stuff. 

Q: if you could give your younger self some words of advice, what would they be? 

A: Find $1500.00 anyway you can so you can invest it in the development of Trivial Pursuit. (Sigh.) Also, as soon as you realize you are unhappy or do not like a job or situation you are in-either try to change it or get out and get on to the next thing. Don’t stay in places that make you unhappy. 

Q: If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or dead, who would they be?

 A: Ok! More than four (all living): Stephanie, Noor, Dwight, Bryan, Alia and Ashleigh-Team Antyx. We would share a meal and some beverages at one of the great restaurants on International Ave. without masks, sitting at the same table, talking and laughing and not worrying about anything. I hope this can happen soon. I really hope this can happen soon.