Jennifer Krueger: Sparking Creative Energies Through Art

Emily Rodger and her cohost Dave Veale welcome Jennifer Krueger, Founder and Executive Director of the Estey Art Initiative. Jennifer's profound connection to art, nurtured by her grandmother, Mary Cornell, has driven her to explore various styles and mediums, continually pushing the boundaries of her artistic abilities.

The episode delves into the remarkable work of the Estey Art Initiative, which brings the transformative power of art to elementary schools across New Brunswick. Jennifer shares the organization's origin story, highlighting its growth from serving three schools to impacting the entire province. Through a unique approach, Estey ensures that no child is turned away by renting children's art pieces to businesses. For each rented piece, a child's tuition is covered, making art education accessible to all.

Jennifer emphasizes the core values of Estey Art Initiative, placing the well-being and empowerment of children above the final art product. The presence of an emotional support person during programming ensures a nurturing environment where children can explore their creativity without pressure. The conversation also addresses the importance of paying artists, recognizing their invaluable contributions to society and fostering a sustainable art ecosystem.

The power of art to inspire, transform, and foster personal growth is a central theme of the episode. Co-host Dave Veale shares his insights from leading leadership workshops, highlighting the profound impact of incorporating creativity into various aspects of life. Emily Rodger suggests embracing the spirit of art in the business world, proposing that Dave adopt a child-produced art piece called 'Candy Cow' for his boardroom. There’s something to be said about the potential of art to create positive atmospheres and cultivate innovative thinking.

As the episode concludes, Emily and Dave reflect on their key takeaways. They are inspired by Jennifer Krueger's commitment to using art as a tool for empowering children and fostering their love for artistic expression. The conversation leaves listeners with a renewed appreciation for the transformative power of art and the importance of incorporating creativity into leadership practices.

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