I Dream in Shapes and Shadows is a visual art exhibition series created by multidisciplinary artist, Monica Ila. The interactive exhibitions are inspired by local scenery and combine intricate paper sculptures with their shadows. Each of the elements are drawn by hand and brought to life through a combination of hand and machine cutting techniques. Visitors are encouraged to become part of the interactive story and dream up new stories of their own.
Monica Ila created her first site specific installation in this series in St. John’s, Newfoundland for the Eastern Edge Gallery in 2023. Her second installation was in based on Calgary, Alberta and featured at the NVRLND. Boutique in 2025. The exhibition was possible thanks to support from the Canada Council of the Arts, Calgary Arts Development, the Festival of Animated Objects and the Canadian Academy of Mask and Puppetry.
Bio
Monica Ila (she/her) is a multidisciplinary artist, cartographer and prairie mermaid from Calgary, Alberta. Her work includes sculpture, murals, painting, and puppetry. Playfulness is at the heart of everything she makes. She creates art out of her studio within NVLRND. Arts Foundation and is studying Sculpture at the Alberta University of the Arts. Her work has been exhibited in numerous solo shows in galleries and public institutions across Canada. Monica believes that art is instrumental in bringing communities closer together and rediscovering the whimsy within our daily lives.
Acknowledging Land and People
I Dream In Shapes and Shadows II is based on the landscapes of the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta. In the spirit of reconciliation, I acknowledge that we all live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the îethka Nakoda Nations (Chiniki, Bearspaw, Goodstoney), the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (Districts 5 and 6), and all people who make their homes within Treaty 7 territory. ​I acknowledge and give gratitude to the Indigenous peoples who have lived on and cared for these lands for generations.
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Festival of Animated Objects
Never heard of the Mask and Puppetry Festival? Find out more on puppetfestival.ca
Special Thanks
This series would not have been possible without support from the Canadian Council for the Arts, Calgary Arts Development, Eastern Edge Gallery, NVRLND. Arts Foundation, Festival of Animated Objects, and Canadian Academy of Mask and Puppetry.
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