CurriculumVitae
Crystal Burgess
2456 Nanoose Road, Nanoose Bay
British Columbia, Canada, V9P 9E6
burgess_crystal|@hotmail.com, Landline: 250) 937 8050, Cell: 250) 797 6321

I am a maker and a helper. I have been creating images, objects and stories since I became able to guide a mark-making tool. Germinating and growing Art projects has always been my place of happiness, of reflection and meditation, of communication, and an important tool for supporting people of all ages.

I am a trauma survivor. I left an unstable home at an early age. My ability to enter art school changed the course of my life. I took out loans and worked to pay my way. I found my path! This opportunity gave me a clear voice, a chance to practice my skills and a brilliant community. During my years as a student, I took part in every exhibition possible. I was even part of a guerilla art group who secretly installed clay wind chimes in trees in Stanley Park! Art making is my calling and my journey. I think it is beautiful that my endeavours can benefit both myself and others in enduring ways. I feel blessed!

MY EDUCATION:
Professional Diploma in School Counselling (Guidance and Psycho Educational Skills) University of Calgary, 2004
Bachelor of Arts and Education, Bachelor of Fine Arts and Education, Nova Scotia University College of Art and Design, 1992
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Ceramics and History) Nova Scotia University College of Art and Design, 1990
Diploma in Fine Arts (Ceramics and History) Emily Carr College of Art and Design, 1988

MY EMPLOYMENT HISTORY HIGHLIGHTS:
Freelance Artist 1984-present, various locations
Teacher (K-12) 2007-present, School District 69, Parksville and Qualicum Beach, BC
Artist in Residence, Instructor (9-12), 2019-2023, Kwalikum Secondary School, Qualicum Beach, BC
Arrowsmith Potter’s Guild, 2009-present (Member, Instructor), Parksville, BC
Art/Classroom Teacher (K-12) , 1993-2006, Kivalliq Region, Arviat, Nunavut
Arviat Carving Society (Arviat Hanninguarvigaat), 1995-2003, Arviat, NU,
(Board member)
Arviat Piliriqatigiit Youth Group, 2000-2006, (Suicide Prevention, Youth Leadership)
Art Instructor, 1994, Fairview Pottery Studios Calgary, Alberta
Assistant Librarian, (Non Print Collection), Nova Scotia College of Art and Design
1990-1991 Halifax, NS
Street Vender, 1986-1988. Art and Jewelry Vancouver, BC
Art Studio Technician, (Ceramics Department), 1986-1988, Emily Carr College of Art and Design Vancouver, BC
Children’s Program Lead Co-ordinator, 1987, Richmond Arts Centre, Richmond, BC

OTHER PROJECTS:
Facilitator for graphic/illustrative planning and recording for gatherings. (MAPS/PATH)
Designed and helped paint community labyrinth 2013 and 2018, Parksville Beach
SD 69 Professional Development Facilitator 2008 and 2010 (Facilitated workshops advocating the use of fine arts in classrooms.)
Arviat Sivuniksamut School Improvement Process, 2006, (Designed and facilitated community workshops intended to strengthen the links between Inuit school and community experiences.)
Kivalliq Regional Teacher’s Conferences, 1995, 2003,2005, (Committee member, designed logos, facilitated workshops.)
Nunavut Youth Abroad Program 2001-2005 (Mentored participants each year, facilitated workshops for youth.)
Camp Carpe Deum Children’s Mindfulness Summer Camp, 2011-2013, (Assistant camp facilitator.)
Arviat Food Bank, 2005-2006, (Committee member, organizer, volunteer.)
Calgary Mustard Seed, 2003-2004, (Art program facilitator.)
Kiluk Sewing Centre 1999-2002, (Board of Directors.)
Arviat Shared Child Care Society 1998-2002, (Board of Directors.)