Q: What is THIRD SHIFT? Where does it take place?
A: THIRD SHIFT is a public contemporary art at night festival in Uptown Saint John, New Brunswick. Throughout the area of Uptown Saint John, art pieces that delve into the annual theme are installed and displayed, many made interactively, allowing for viewers to immerse themselves in the artwork and collective experience. THIRD SHIFT not only includes an opening night of art, but workshop events, nighttime screenings, and community speaker panels, too, as it spans over the course of three days as a free festival for all ages.

Q: What is Third Space Gallery? Is it the same as THIRD SHIFT?
A: Not quite. Third Space Gallery is an itinerant artist-run centre located in Saint John, NB, committed to facilitating the education, understanding, and appreciation of contemporary art. It operates year-round, putting on members’ shows, art sales, exhibitions, book launches and much more in various locations throughout the Uptown area. THIRD SHIFT is one of its many, many projects.

Q: Can I become a member of Third Space?
A: Of course! Find more details here.

Q: When does THIRD SHIFT happen?
A: This year’s festival happens Friday, August 16th (7pm-12am) through Sunday, August 18th, 2024, in beautiful Uptown Saint John. Details about the 2024 festival will be updated on the main page of this website.

Q: How are the festival themes chosen? 
A: Each year, Third Space commits to welcoming an Indigenous Artist in Residence to be the “headliner” of the festival. Through discussions with the THIRD SHIFT Team and the artist, a theme is established to help guide the creative process of others during the Call for Proposals, in relation to the A.i.R.’s own body of work. Into its 4th year, THIRD SHIFT has taken on past themes such as: Traverse, Peripheries, Reclamation, and now Psyche. 

Q: What does “Psyche” mean?
A: “Psyche” takes on various definitions, often referring to one’s mind underneath the surface. In psychology, the psyche is the centre of thought, feeling, and motivation, which often revolve around mental health and overall psychological wellbeing. From an artistic perspective, the word “psyche” refers to the exploration and representation of the human mind, emotions, and consciousness through various mediums. Artists often delve into the complexities of the psyche, seeking to capture and express the inner thoughts, feelings, and experiences of individuals or collective groups. This exploration can involve the portrayal of dreams, desires, fears, and the subconscious, using symbolism, metaphor, and sensory elements to convey the intricacies of the human mind. This year’s artworks in THIRD SHIFT: PSYCHE challenge this theme through relevant subjects, from climate change, identity, mental health and wellness, occupying space, and more. Overall, the artistic exploration of the psyche aims to capture the intangible aspects of human consciousness and emotions, offering viewers or audiences a chance to reflect, empathize, and connect with the depths of the human experience.

Q:  Where can I find a map?
A: Maps, times, locations, details on artist talks and other information will be made available closer to the festival. You will be able to find it on this website and in our beautiful festival guides. In the meantime, you can find information about what to expect right here. As the festival approaches, we’ll update the site to show works-in-progress and more! Follow @thirdspacegallery on Instagram to stay in the loop. We also have a Facebook event that you can join soon!

Q: Where are accessibility notes found?
A: We strive to make THIRD SHIFT as accessible as possible. In the weeks leading up to THIRD SHIFT, we will update this website and each individual installation with detailed notes regarding wheelchair access, washrooms, closed captioning, digital accessibility, and more. Accessibility notes will also be shared on the official festival event guide so you have access to them on the go.

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