ArtistSpeak* – Parenthood

Join us for an evening centred on the lived experiences of artists navigating parenthood — including pregnancy, caregiving, chosen family, fertility journeys, and the decision not to parent. Through shared stories and reflection, we’ll explore how creativity adapts, contracts, expands, and survives alongside responsibility and love. This gathering creates space for nuance, honesty, and connection — honouring the many ways artists balance making work while caring for others and themselves. Event Details: Date: Thursday, October 1, 2026 Doors: 6:30 PM | Program: 7:00 PM Location: Congress Coffee — 215 36 Ave NE, Calgary, AB Tickets: $20 in advance / $25 at the door Craft Activity: TBD Email us for low-barrier ticket options: [email protected] Featured Artists: Adrienne Williams: Adrianne Williams is a multidisciplinary artist, working with themes of culture and the individual. Her paintings, installations and video works explore her Caribbean ancestry, while often highlighting ideas of pop culture and culture clash. Williams completed her BFA in Drawing at the Alberta University of the Arts in 2007. She has shown her work in Calgary, Edmonton, Italy and Spain. Michelle Thrush: Michelle Thrush has worked professionally in film, television, and theatre for more than 35 years with her first film role at the age of seventeen. Ms. Thrush with over forty professional credits in the entertainment industry has also won numerous awards and special recognitions. Ms. Thrush continues to write, direct, and produce theatre, and has played many leading roles across Canada. Michelle is a founding member, actor and director of Making Treaty 7. The mother of two wonderful daughters, Michelle and her family are currently residing in Calgary, Alberta. Kris Demeanor: Kris Demeanor is a Mohkinstsis born artist who has released 10 recordings of original songs, acted in theatre and film, and was the first poet laureate of Calgary. The most fulfilling and significant work Kris has done began with his involvement in the Making Treaty 7 Cultural Society, collaborating with indigenous artists on numerous beautiful and unique projects. Most recently Kris accompanied Cedric Lightning at his debut appearance at the 2026 Calgary Folk Music Festival, and will perform in June in Michelle Thrush and Peter Moller’s Indians and Cowboys, as well Ghost River Theatre’s Echoes of the Land. Kris Demeanor’s most recent album is titled Songs for my Father to Fall Asleep to, and he appeared January 2026 in One Yellow Rabbit’s Dream Machine. Learn more about ArtistSpeak* and our other events comin this year at: www.artistspeakyyc.com ArtistSpeak* is supported by the Institute for Community Prosperity @ Mount Royal University (MRU)