Jayda Karsten
Building Equality in Architecture Calgary
Jayda Karsten’s interdisciplinary artistic and curatorial practice investigates the spaces and places in the built environment that are in a state of flux. Drawn to the gaps and overlaps between Fine Art and Architecture, she explores her relationship within the built environment through processes such as: wayfinding, psychogeography, relational aesthetics, ethnography and autoethnography. Her choice of utilitarian semi-industrial materials is often paired with a transformative human element that aims to engage with the public by creating an art experience. While her interest in collections and curating seeks to uncover layers of cultural and personal memory. Characteristically resulting in works that are large site-specific immersive installations, curated exhibitions, sculptures, drawings and prints.
She is the treasurer of Building Equality in Architecture Calgary, a ground up initiative that promotes equality and diversity in the city-building professions. Our organization aims to support, celebrate, and connect practitioners working in architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, urban planning, and the construction industry. BEA uses an intersectional and cross-disciplinary approach to support leadership, mentorship, and networking opportunities in our professional community. We host events and public lectures; work to generate awareness and dialogue around inclusive practices and addressing barriers; and celebrate the multiplicity of voices, hands, and minds who plan and design our communities.
