NSCAD University students highlight sustainable solutions at new showcase

NSCAD students presents responses to real-world problems.

Design students are offering bold and environmentally conscious responses to pressing global issues at a new showcase at NSCAD University.

The exhibition features the work of 18 emerging designers, each focused on sustainable, zero-plastic methodologies. From energy efficiency to mental health, and even eye and body wellness, students have turned their creativity toward some of society’s most persistent challenges.

“We’re not proposing final solutions,” said Emma Rath, a contract faculty instructor at NSCAD. “We’re proposing in-progress ideas of how to make the world a better place.”

Anna Gruodis, a first-year interdisciplinary design students, said she was particularly struck by an energy home toolkit on display.

“It was really, really neat,” she said. “It came with a fully 30-page document that allowed a user to measure the energy consumption of their own home.”

Gruodis said the showcase made her think about what kind of positive impact she hopes to have through her own future projects.

“All this is super aspirational,” she said. “I would like to make something or a product or a service or a system that can contribute to the betterment of someone’s life.”

While most of the designers’ projects are now on display, some students are still adding their work. Carelle Waked is preparing a piece that explores mental health through the lens of immigrant experiences – specifically those who face employment barriers despite having international credentials.

“Through storytelling illustrations, I can have the viewer go through their journey with them,” said Waked. “And see how these experiences can affect their mental health negatively.”

This year’s exhibit uses no vinyl lettering and no plastic, ensuring even the wall materials can be recycled.

“This is something that is not standard practice within galleries or institutions around Canada, let alone around the world,” said Rath.

Visitors can explore the exhibit until Saturday.

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