In this last episode of Season 2 of SPEAK, Rachel and Fin invite guests to talk about the role of H’Art/BEING Studio in Ontario over the past 20 years. They talk to professor Michael Orsini (University of Ottawa) about the changes in disability rights since the beginning of BEING. Professor Eliza Chandler (Ryerson University) also talks about the importance of having access to a disability arts archive.

This episode marks the first half of a two-part mini-series on the evolution of BEING Studio over the past 20 years. This part focuses on late artist Irene Beck and the storytelling power of art. Artists and family members come together to react to and remember Irene’s paper bag collection, “Sidekick”.

Meet Bella Bowes, a painter and writer who shares her life with her two dogs, Gertie and Polkadot. Bella feels a strong connection to animals and nature. In this episode, we can hear her passionate reflections both in her conversation with Rachel and in excerpts of her writing over the years.

Doug Garrow is a funny guy. If you don’t believe him, ask his friends or look at his art. His jokes shine through and his sunny attitude is guaranteed to lift your mood.

The music for this episode was composed by Bucko.

Claire comes from a long line of artists and she is proud to carry on the family tradition. In this episode, she talks about her travels and how they inspire her to be creative. She explains her desire to be famous and accepted as she is.

This episode is a little different. It features Sharlene Cooney, a multi-disciplinary non-speaking artist. Debbie and Rachel worked with Sharlene and her support carer Linda Daly to write what Sharlene wanted to express. Then, storyteller Kim Kilpatrick was entrusted with reading Sharlene’s words.

You will not hear Sharlene speak today, but it is her voice and this is her podcast.

Henry Hong finds the ocean exhilarating and worthy of being saved. Join Rachel and Debbie on their journey through the wonderful and terrifying world of Henry’s ocean.

Brad Millar loves making cards. He gifts smiling animal cards, birthday cards, and “get well” cards to everyone in his life, sharing his joy. Listen to Brad’s story and hear about how his card-giving affects those around him.

Charisse Rayne likes to let her art speak for itself. So she decided to ask people close to her to describe what her art means to them, opening a window into who she is as an artist.

Will you be brave enough to go through the Magic Window? Join Ada Chan as you journey to space, perform some rhythmic gymnastics, and try on glasses that allow you to see the COVID 19 virus.