About Us
Our work takes place on the unceded and stolen homelands and territories of the sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), selí̓lw̓itulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xwməθ kwəy̓əm (Musqueam) nations. However, given that our artists and viewers come from all over what is colonially referred to as British Columbia, in addressing the few, we play into the trend of pan-indigeneity that has become commonplace in many circles. We encourage everyone that visits our collection to find out what territories you are an uninvited settler, and deeply reflect on what it means to be "here" and call it "home."
FRIENDFEST is a celebration of community and friendship, and all the creativity that hangs out in it. This year, FRIENDFEST is back in a different way: showcasing our good vibes, good company, and local artists in a digital zine and interactive mix tape. We're sharing a collection of narratives that bring us closer during a time of distance.
"Between Spaces" acknowledges that space is manifested in human life. We experience "between" in different ways — physically, mentally, and emotionally — and that can bring anything from struggle, to inspiration, to happiness. It's okay to be "between," whatever that looks like for you.
FRIENDFEST is a celebration of art in, and beyond our social sphere. Come and sit with us for awhile.
If you have any questions regarding our 2021 presentation of FRIENDFEST, hit us up @friend.fest! Let's be friends!
Why FRIENDFEST?
FriendFest began as a desire to uplift passion projects on a stage. What started as a question of “why don’t we do that?” blossomed into our first event in 2019. We gathered together in a shared space of fun, love, and respect. We showcased a variety of different art forms from illustration, literary work, digital composition, fashion, photography, and more. A lineup of musicians performing live sets accompanied our gallery inspired experience.
To be in the presence of new friends and creatives alike was beautiful and inspired us to build a little world outside of the initial event — a place where friends can hang out, showcase their art to its full extent regardless of experience — and share ideas in a safe and inspired environment. In 2021, a digital experience arrives in the form of a zine, gallery, and mixtape. Carrying with it the same intention as our inaugural event, we hope you discover the amazing talents of all artists showcased!
The future of FriendFest lies in decolonizing what it means it be "an artist." We encourage all of our friends, old and new, to keep creating. All too often we hear, and tell comments to ourselves like, "I'm not a real artist," or "I'm not legit, or good enough." We see you and your work and you are valid. Art and creation is not about whether someone appraises it. If you love to do the things you do, we welcome your sharing with open arms.
Organizers
Alexa
She/Her | @chuwiwo
Hi, I'm Alexa. I'm an excitable, indulgent, short bio and passionate young woman that enjoys stories in every single form. I don't believe that a singular method of narration is superior, and I indulge in all forms of storytelling from novels to video games. Poetry moves me, geeky things make me smile, and dogs make my world go round.
The word: "in-between" resonates with me as a young woman navigating a Catholic Filipino upbringing in a white man's world obsessed with putting things in a box. As I explore new parts of myself and open myself to new experiences where fear once lingered, I feel a little closer to embracing my true self.
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Alexa
She/Her | @chuwiwo
Hi, I'm Alexa. I'm an excitable, indulgent, short bio and passionate young woman that enjoys stories in every single form. I don't believe that a singular method of narration is superior, and I indulge in all forms of storytelling from novels to video games. Poetry moves me, geeky things make me smile, and dogs make my world go round.
The word: "in-between" resonates with me as a young woman navigating a Catholic Filipino upbringing in a white man's world obsessed with putting things in a box. As I explore new parts of myself and open myself to new experiences where fear once lingered, I feel a little closer to embracing my true self.
-
Alexa
She/Her | @chuwiwo
Hi, I'm Alexa. I'm an excitable, indulgent, short bio and passionate young woman that enjoys stories in every single form. I don't believe that a singular method of narration is superior, and I indulge in all forms of storytelling from novels to video games. Poetry moves me, geeky things make me smile, and dogs make my world go round.
The word: "in-between" resonates with me as a young woman navigating a Catholic Filipino upbringing in a white man's world obsessed with putting things in a box. As I explore new parts of myself and open myself to new experiences where fear once lingered, I feel a little closer to embracing my true self.