Emma-Leigh Hinds

Animation and Energy: What does Canadian Energy, Animation, and Global changes have in common?

Animated  Short Film

My piece showcases the importance of the Canadian energy sector through the eyes of an animator. It shows how important the energy sector is not only to the animators themselves, but to the viewers as well. No matter how much a video is dubbed or what the language is of the text on the screen, everyone understands a moving image, like body language or facial expressions. Animation is often used to capture and keep the viewer's attention to spread messages, and to make large, hard-to-handle topics into smaller, more manageable bites. Without energy, animation couldn't exist as it does today, and in a world of needed convenience, that's a major "uh-oh".

Josiah Steeves

The Framework of Our Energy Future

Visual Art

When beginning the creative process for my project, The Framework of Our Energy Future, I had a clear goal in mind: to portray how all of Canada’s diverse energy creation methods can work together in beautiful synchronicity. Having multiple forms of energy generation in Canada allows its citizens—including myself—to enjoy a higher quality of life. Three key factors that contribute to this positive influence on Canadians are Employment, Choice, and Reliability.

‍Employment — Every single system of energy creation requires people to invent, develop, build, and operate the equipment. Having a multitude of energy creation methods not only produces more electricity and fuel for people, but also creates more jobs for the citizens of our growing country.

‍Choice — Having diversity in energy creation methods allows people to choose what type of energy they want to use. If a Canadian wants to go completely green by investing in an electric car and solar panels, they can. If they prefer to drive a large gas-powered vehicle, they can, by supporting Canada’s oil and gas industry. The more energy creation methods available, the more choices Canadians have.

‍Reliability — Canada cannot rely on just one form of energy generation due to the risk of complications. For example, if Canada’s entire energy sector were fueled solely by wind power, there would be a nationwide crisis if a shortage of wind turbine blades occurred. Canada would begin to lose power across the country, causing entire cities and industries to shut down. However, thanks to Canada’s vast variation in energy creation methods (e.g., hydroelectric dams, geothermal plants, solar panels, coal), the country would be able to adapt and continue providing power. Having a variety of energy sources ensures a more reliable energy future.

‍The Framework of Our Energy Future was created to show how Canada’s energy systems can work in harmony—much like Canada’s vast landscapes and diverse people come together to create the beautiful nation that many, including myself, call home. The energy industry fuels all other industries, which is why it’s critical that we make thoughtful choices to move our energy sector forward, while also providing Canadians with Employment, Choice, and Reliability.

My project showcases the diversity of the Canadian energy sector by placing replicas of various energy creation systems onto landscapes that can be found throughout the nation. Some replicas even feature moving parts to symbolize the constant motion of the energy industry. The backdrops are interchangeable to represent that the energy sector continues to operate and evolve at all times—through night, dawn, day, and dusk.

Ultimately, my project offers a glimpse into the beauty and dynamism of our strong, growing energy sector.

Max Hagenow

A Day in The Life With The Energy Sector

Film

This short film shows how the Canadian energy sector directly impacts the daily life of an average 18 year old. From the moment we wake up to the moment we go to sleep it shows how energy is all around us. As the video goes on it starts to go more in depth into how the Canadian energy sector helps the economy, other countries, and the entire world, all while going back to how it betters the average daily life in Canada.

Casper Dong

Solving The Canadian Oil Education Problem: Innovative Video Game and Digital Arts Curriculum!

Interactive Oil Painting Instillation

The painting describes how the Canadian energy sector creates jobs, supports critical infrastructure like hospitals, prevents energy insecurity, and how Canadian energy production can lead as a better example in sustainability on a global stage.

The ropes seen on the painting, show how energy symbolically "Ties" in crucial part of our life. The two hands, reaching out for each other show how even when politically polarized like never before, we need to see through our differences to establish a brighter future for our nation. A hospital is shown in the reflection of oil derricks, showing how vital services depend on stable energy producers. In the top right corner, a painting of Calgary lit up, shows how energy insecurity isn't a problem with dependable production.

A falling angel metaphorically depicts how when the "Rope" which "Ties" Energy into our lives is cut, it's the working class who benefit from the economic and job security that suffer. Lastly, the eye shows that we need to see the effects that energy has on our lives and learn to see past issues like climate, but embrace the positive impacts that the Canadian energy sector provides.

The 3D art installations surrounding media, aims to give people a better "Perspective" (Pun intended) On how Canadian energy production is a vital part of not just our nation, but that Canada can become a global leader in demonstrating sustainable and environmentally conscious production of energy.

By creating a 3D installation,  the metaphor of seeing a "Different Perspective" Is fulfilled. It also means art which can normally only be experienced through images or in person, is accessible for anyone across both the nation and globe.

Keni Liang

NRG Efficiency

Short Animated Film

Thanks to the Canadian energy sector, aspiring duelists Physis and Limpid are able to train at an isolated training club in another nation. Physis tells Limpid about her childhood growing up in Canada and learning about its energy sector from her parents, who worked directly in the industry. Limpid had never learned about the importance of energy and the significance of having access to it to keep up the success in his training, and Physis's wisdom helps guide him towards a better way of living with gratitude. By the end of the short film, Limpid has stronger awareness of doing the little things: turning off the tap when brushing his teeth or closing the light when exiting a room, and in turn, he feels a sense of appreciation that he never felt before for the energy that helps him do what he loves everyday.

The Canadian energy sector is something many of us take for granted, and showcasing the direct impact of it on two individuals in a short film helps us understand the importance of it for not only us living in Canada, but also citizens of the 130+ other countries that import energy from it (Government of Canada, 2022).

Mikayla Hall-Bruce

The Great Energy Showdown

Short  Story/Children's Story

My submission is a children's book that explores various energy sectors: hydropower, solar energy, wind energy, nuclear energy, and fossil fuels. I describe both the positive and negative aspects of each type of energy in a format that is easily digestible for elementary school-aged children. Through the use of rhymes and colourful illustrations, I hope to get young Canadian children interested in where their energy comes from and the importance of the Canadian energy sector in their everyday lives.
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The first manner in which my book showcases the importance of the Canadian energy sector is that it showcases the diversity of options available to Canadians as energy sources. Canadians have the opportunity to produce their own energy for themselves through the use of personal solar panels to supply energy for their home. Canadians may also live in communities supplied with energy from wind turbines and water dams. Alternatively, Canada also has an abundance of fossil fuels compared to many other nations, which also serves as a source of energy. Finally, Canada is one of the limited number of nations that uses nuclear power to generate energy. Therefore, a key benefit of the Canadian energy sector that my submission highlights is the diversity of Canada's energy sources.
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Additionally, an important lesson that I hope for the reader to take away, is that no energy source is perfect and that they all have their strengths and limitations. An aspect of the Global Warning documentary that I admired was that it equally highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of Canada's fossil fuel industry. Therefore, in addition to outlining the many different sources of energy that Canadians have access to, I also wrote about their pros and cons. However, as mentioned previously, the wide array of energy sources that Canadians have access to has ensured that our energy sector is not so dependent on only one source of energy. When energy production via one source stagnates, potentially due to environmental factors such as a drought limiting energy production at dams, Canadians still have access to energy produced via fossil fuels, solar power, wind power, and nuclear power. Canadians can benefit from multiple sources of energy at the same time. Therefore, the second key benefit of the Canadian energy sector that my submission highlights is the stability of energy supply to Canadian citizens via multiple avenues.

Abigail McCorquodale

Powering The Flag

Dance  Concept Video

When I think about Canada, one of the first words that comes to mind is “diversity.” Our nation is made up of a vast variety of people, cultures, and beliefs, all coming together to create something unique and powerful.

When taking the Energy Creates course, I was struck by how thoroughly our energy sector reflects and mimics that strong sense of diversity; we as a nation rely on many very different energy sources and industries to keep us moving and expanding. While each source is important on its own, it cannot fulfill the entirety of Canada's needs by itself, which is what makes the variety we see in our energy sector so important.

I wanted to explore the idea of energy diversity through movement and gathered a team of seven unique dancers to represent seven of the energy sources Canada relies on. Each dancer wears a different colored piece of fabric to represent their power source and performs a solo choreography piece inspired by their assigned industry. As each dancer performs their solo, a puzzle piece with an image of their power source floats across the bottom of the screen. At the end of the video, all the dancers perform together in one space, weaving through each other to create something all-consuming and bigger than themselves. As the video fades to black, each dancer’s puzzle piece comes together to form the shape of the Canadian flag, showing that Canada’s strong sense of diversity is reflected in the energy industry just as much as it is reflected throughout its population.

Though many energy sources are showcased throughout this concept video, Oil and Gas takes a strong leadership position, acting as the backbone and driving force behind what keeps Canada moving. It was important to me that this sense of leadership was reflected in the dancing, which is why I decided it made the most sense for me to dance that particular part. As the director, choreographer, camera person, and creative mind behind this project, it felt appropriate to have the driving force behind the project play the driving force behind the energy sector.

My goal in creating this Concept Video was to make understanding and supporting Canada’s energy sector easier and more accessible to people through movement, rather than words and statistics that may be harder to grasp. I wanted to help people see the beauty and humanity of a sector that often gets a reputation for being harsh and, at times, destructive. In order to better our energy sector and make it more sustainable, we first have to allow ourselves to see the humanity and artistry embedded within it — and appreciate that, just like Canada's population, diversity is what powers our flag.

Sharlet Kumar

Canadian Energy Landscape: An Electronic Sculpture

Visual Art  Piece- Electronic Sculpture

Inspired by Mathew Embry's 2019 documentary, ""Global Warning"", this electronic sculpture visually demonstrates how energy is generated and used across Canada, alongside the socio-economic impacts of our current energy landscape. I'm currently studying as a Mechatronics & AI Engineer, where energy is the foundation of all my work. So, I decided to build something that uses energy self- referentially to illustrate the gravity of the energy conversation in Canada.
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All these perspectives serve as microcosms of the Canadian energy landscape. All of them are valid in their own right. But what emerges is an undeniable sense of tension and chaos when we look at this problem from above. When I look at my sculpture, I feel this.
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We need reliable, affordable energy, both now and in the future.
There is no doubt about that. But how can we reconcile so many nuanced, intertwining viewpoints in a way that ensures a safe future for all Canadians? While I do not have any answers, I'm confident that what I have created conveys the significance and urgency of asking this particular question -- which is the first step to shaping a better future.

Ali Al Ayssami

Sustainable Seconds

Art piece

Time is said to be the only resource that cannot be bought, replenished, or replaced. Sustainable Seconds is a kinetic sculpture highlighting the fleeting moments we have to make important climate decisions. The handcrafted Stirling engine is the centerpiece of the sculpture and, through heat, powers a clock face stripped of its hour markings‚ call to the complex debates surrounding climate that leave us wondering, how much time do we have left?

The hotter the flame, the faster the clock face spins. A sense of impending danger is instilled in the viewer as the clock face spins at a blistering 33 revolutions per second, mimicking the climate anxiety shared by many Canadians. By omitting the hour markings on the clock face, the viewer is obligated to determine for themselves the amount of time that remains for humanity to spark change. Or whether change is needed at all.

It runs entirely on heat input, mimicking fossil fuel energy generation. Decades of fossil fuel dominance have created the structure upon which the Canadian economy and society are held. The intricacies of the machine amalgamate into a critical product resistant to change.
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"Sustainable Seconds" serves as a metaphor for Canada's energy sector. The complex, finely-tuned machine has become the backbone of our economy and society and, much like the engine, only persists as the torch is passed on from generation to generation. As Canadians, we are challenged to question how long we will allow this reliance to shape our future.

The wooden base upon which the engine rests is a subtle yet powerful reminder: despite our pursuit of technological advancement, we remain fundamentally dependent on the natural world. The Canadian energy sector supplies jobs, fuels the economy, and has cultural significance in many provinces. Be that as it may, when all the fossil fuels run out, we may be left with a few precious sustainable seconds.

Ewaenruwa Nomaren

The LEGO Build that Tells You Everything about Canadian Energy

LEGO Build

My piece showcases the importance of the Canadian energy sector because it takes the viewer through the process of how Canadian energy improves the standard of living of Canadians and other people around the world. It shows the viewer how Canadian energy is used all throughout Canada to fuel our cars, buses and other modes of transportation, provide electricity for our homes, and run profitable industries all across the country.

My piece also demonstrates how the Canadian energy sector brings significant profits that are used to run many other key elements of Canadian society like healthcare and education, and make it one of the most prosperous nations in the world.

Thirdly, my piece shows how Canadian energy is produced at some of the highest environmental standards in the world, making Canada a cleaner place to live in and also providing other countries that don't produce energy to such standards with cleaner energy, improving their quality of life as well.

Logan Young

Oil of the North

Song

With Oil of the North, I wanted to delve into the heart and soul of Canada’s oil and fossil fuel industry, aiming to capture not only the immense pride we hold in this sector but also its pivotal role in our nation’s economy and identity. This rock song is a tribute to the tireless workers and the innovative spirit that drive this industry.

I also wanted to remind listeners of the crucial balance between harnessing natural resources and pioneering technological advancements that lead to more efficient and environmentally considerate extraction and usage methods. This balance is what positions Canada as a leader in the global energy market.

The song conveys a message of hope and forward-thinking, celebrating how our natural resources can fuel the future — without forgetting the importance of innovation and environmental stewardship.

Alvin Elendu

Polar Futures

Digital  Art Drawing

This artwork, which depicts a polar bear with an ECG line passing through it, represents the vital role that Canada's energy sector plays in protecting the country's wildlife and natural ecosystem. The purposeful use of the polar bear serves as a reminder of the interdependence of nature and human existence, particularly in the context of energy production, and also serves as a symbol of Canada's Arctic wilderness.

The ECG line that passes through the animal represents the lifeblood of the nation's energy sector as well as the health of the environment. The ECG's steady beat represents the nation's steady and consistent energy flow, which sustains its ecosystems, communities, and economy.

The ECG line's rest spots will exhibit the many forms of energy generation and use, with a focus on highlighting renewable and non-renewable energy sources. The ECG line's rest point also illustrates the effects of energy use on the environment and wildlife. Incorporating both renewable and non-renewable sources recognizes the delicate equilibrium required to maintain both a robust economy and a healthy environment.

The overall concept of the monochrome artwork enhances the messages being conveyed. The stark composition of the ECG line and the polar bear's lack of colour highlight how urgent the decisions Canada must make about its energy future are.

Andy Li

Energy of the True North

Song

Growing up in Metro Vancouver, I was always surrounded by the powerful, clean energy of BC Hydro. It was one of those things I took for granted—an efficient and sustainable energy system that I assumed existed everywhere. As I grew older, with maturity and a growing understanding of energy practices, I began to notice the sharp differences between the energy landscape in British Columbia and that of other countries, or even other provinces within Canada. This contrast amplified my awareness of Canada’s unique and diverse energy identities.

That upbringing, with ever-reliable and affordable hydroelectric power, shaped my vision of energy: clean, sustainable, and abundant—a seemingly limitless resource. But that perception was eventually challenged as I learned more about global energy realities. The environmental struggles and energy crises in many regions highlighted just how fortunate we are to have systems we often overlook.

This realization sparked my research into Canada’s various energy sectors, each with its own identity. I remember reading about Alberta’s oil sands for the first time and learning how they drive not just our national economy, but also contribute globally. The ingenuity required to harness that resource—despite its environmental challenges—impressed me deeply. It became clear how resourcefulness and technological advancement can propel us forward.

As I explored further, I discovered the groundbreaking work in Ontario’s nuclear power sector. The futuristic innovation behind delivering a steady and reliable energy supply helped me understand that our energy future can’t rely on a single resource. It requires a balanced mix—diverse energy sources combined with smart technologies to ensure a secure and resilient path ahead.

This song reflects the journey from childhood unawareness to a deeper appreciation of the intricacies and innovations within Canada’s energy sector. It acknowledges the privilege many of us enjoy, thanks to sustainable leaders like BC Hydro, while calling attention to the vital efforts across the nation, from Alberta’s oil to Ontario’s nuclear advancements. Through this piece, I wanted to illustrate not only the significance of the Canadian energy sector, but also the distinct identities and innovations that make it truly unique.

Elijah Dean

Locke'd

Cinematic Musical Piece

My piece poetically addresses the significance of the Canadian energy sector by illustrating its monumental impact on the Canadian economy, especially in provinces whose economies are largely dependent on oil and gas, like Alberta. Moreover, it explores how the oilfield has a tremendous impact on thousands of workers, and how the loss of an occupation in that field can have devastating effects on that individual and their family.

However, the project also calls attention to the wild beauty of Canada and how that raw, untamed charm ought to be protected. Thus, the oilfield must be responsible—but so must renewable solutions. Renewables can also cause environmental harm when not properly utilized, and this is something to be cautious of. Wind energy can affect bird populations. Solar energy can have adverse effects on native vegetation and wildlife. And hydro energy dams can have significant impacts on a river’s ecosystem.

In short, practically all forms of energy extraction can have negative environmental impacts if not carefully planned and executed. Lastly, my piece addresses how polarizing this issue is and seeks to examine the philosophical stances that both sides of the aisle are promoting—and what truths can be gleaned from each. This ultimately leads to a synthesis that boldly supports John Locke’s biblical conception of stewardship.

Elijah Dean

Locke'd

Cinematic  Musical Piece

My piece poetically addresses the significance of the Canadian energy sector by illustrating its monumental impact on the Canadian economy, especially in provinces whose economies are largely dependent on oil and gas, like Alberta. Moreover, it explores how the oilfield has a tremendous impact on thousands of workers, and how the loss of an occupation in that field can have devastating effects on individuals and their families.

However, the project also calls attention to the wild beauty of Canada and how that raw, untamed charm ought to be protected. Thus, the oilfield must act responsibly—but so must renewable solutions. Renewables can also cause environmental harm when not properly utilized, and this is something to be cautious of. Wind energy can affect bird populations. Solar energy can have adverse effects on native vegetation and wildlife. And hydro energy dams can significantly impact a river’s ecosystem.

In short, practically all forms of energy extraction can have negative environmental impacts if not calculated and carried out correctly. Lastly, my piece addresses how polarizing this issue is and seeks to examine the philosophical stances both sides of the aisle are promoting—and what truths can be gleaned from each. This ultimately leads to a synthesis that boldly supports John Locke’s biblical conception of stewardship.

Gayathri Nejimon

A Day at Sunrise Farm

Comic

My short comic shows how a small, family-run sunflower farm benefits from the Canadian energy sector. I tried to make it as entertaining as possible while also being educational, informing the reader of facts and misconceptions about this industry. I took inspiration from the “edutainment” shows I’ve watched before. I’m especially proud of the laid-back and relaxing vibe of the comic, which makes it fun and enjoyable for the reader while also learning about the Canadian energy sector. The wholesome dynamic between the characters creates natural and down-to-earth scenes.

To summarize, I think my comic shows the importance of the energy sector by using wholesome and cute characters who benefit from the industry, helping readers understand how it supports people from different backgrounds—by focusing on how it helps this particular family in their specific situation.

Joseph Skinner

Polarized

Short Film

In my short film, two characters—each with opposing views of the energy sector—are presented and developed to highlight the current divide among Canadians on this topic. This division has led to black-and-white perspectives held by many on both sides. In the conclusion of the film, the importance of the Canadian energy sector is emphasized through statements about its potential contributions to the Canadian economy.

However, the central message is that a better future can be achieved by embracing the benefits of both the energy and environmental sectors. By utilizing the wealth created, we can fund innovation in cleaner practices and potentially invent or discover new sources of energy.

Rowan Rallison

Carbon Copies

Poem

“Carbon Copies” is a study on the humanity of the Canadian energy sector. It is intentionally small, and it is inherently personal, which allows it to place a billion-dollar industry into a single human life. It addresses the often overlooked connection between everyday mundanities—an artist and their paper, for example, or a student and their aspirations—and the energy our world is built on. It gives thanks to little lights, and to the oil extraction industry for the careers it provides, and above all to the flowers, trees, and weeds from which we have energy in the first place.

The Canadian energy sector undeniably reflects Canada’s landscape—as such, it cannot be separated from the people and communities who dwell on its soil. We are the future of energy, for we understand that it is not an evil, nor a good, but an inevitability. As is commonly understood in both political and scientific fields, energy cannot be separated from its provider and its output: carbon.

Above all, this poem strives to say—in an artist’s words, not a scientist’s—that carbon will always exist within us. Our world is made of it, and Canada’s energy sector has spent decades doing its best with it. It cannot be a solution to ignore it, for there will always be carbon copies, which is to say, other countries; carbon copies, such as solar power, wind power, and other forms of renewable energy. Our national energy industry, however, is a part of us. We made it ourselves, after all.

This work is a tribute to the boy who dreamed of making our fuel safer, and to the girl who’d heard of the hummingbird in British Columbia.

Tristyn Murray

The Shape of Energy

Short Film

In my piece, I wanted to raise awareness of the importance of the Canadian energy sector, highlighting both the tremendous impact it has on all of our lives and the challenges it can create if we do not manage its growth responsibly.

The piece is brought to life through the movement of dance, symbolizing that energy is not always conceptualized as a material substance. It begins and ends in a dark atmosphere, using light and the shapes of my body to create my own energy. Throughout the piece, I dance in various Canadian locations that reflect different elements fueled by energy, such as electricity, transportation, and economic growth.

To ensure my own thoughts on the importance of the Canadian energy sector were accurately represented, I chose to include words in the piece. Staying true to my artistic vision, I wrote a poem and narrated it as a voiceover. In the poem, I speak to how energy sources positively impact our lives, followed quickly by some of the challenges those same sources can bring. The goal, as stated in the final line, was to make sure we don’t view the growth of the energy sector through rose-coloured glasses—and that we are held accountable for the direct or indirect impacts this growth can have.

Vonn De Vera

Emulsify; a poem

We are born from energy,
Bounded by atoms colliding in the cosmos
Exploding into the miracle of life.
Energy isn’t just what powers our homes,
It’s what powers our hearts.
Feel it,
The pulse in your veins,
The surge of adrenaline when you chase a dream,
The warmth of love on a cold night—
It’s all energy,
It’s all power.
But what are we doing with it?
We drain the earth,
Bleed it dry,
Dig deep into its core without bounds,
Extracting black gold that poisons the air,
Filling our lungs with the smoke of a dying world,
Then point fingers.
We’ve lit fires we can’t control,
Burning futures for fleeting comforts.
However, in the name of “progress”,
We’ve severed bonds,
Divided our nation by lines of strife,
While Alberta’s heartaches swell,
As jobs are lost, and hope is quelled.
Communities frayed by careless hands,
Trade futures for shifting sands.
The fervour of protests,
Splatters of paint,
Mask a deeper cry for balance,
While the cry for jobs and livelihood
Echoes through the empty halls of industry.

We can’t mend our world by tearing it apart,
Or by disregarding ancient wisdom’s art.
We must find the middle ground,
Where innovation meets the roots of land,
Where progress isn’t a war but a dance,
In harmony with the rhythms of the earth.
To build a future that’s not just fair,
But respectful, with careful care.
Honouring those whose stories weave
Into the fabric of our land’s reprieve.
Let energy guide us to a balanced path,
Where every voice and every breath
Is valued in the creation of our fate.
From the oil fields to sacred grounds,
We forge ahead, our shared hopes bound.
In unity, not division, we will strive,
To let both heart and earth survive.
And thus we must emulsify,
for our arguments are like
oil and water do not mix;
but for a solution we must converse,
see eye to eye,
and truly, emulsify,
For we, deep within, are all energy.

Poem

In my piece, "Emulsify," I liken the feud over the Oil and Gas Sector to the lack of blending seen in oil and water. As thoroughly displayed by the documentary Global Warning, the energy sector debate is nuanced and multifaceted.

My poem exemplifies how extreme, unguided polar opinions that refuse to meet halfway only cause setbacks in progression. It alludes to particular sides—such as "splattered paint," referencing the viral Just Stop Oil protests, "Land's Roots," pointing to Indigenous perspectives, and the Albertan economic core.

Throughout, a clear message is conveyed: global warming and climate change are real and urgent issues, but we must not forget how the Canadian energy sector has helped shape our country’s innovation and prosperity—therefore, it should not be abandoned.