Ideas

Georgiana Ulyaric, a curator at the Art Gallery of Ontario, Brian Foss, an art history professor, and Michael Snow, an artist and Joyce Wieland's husband, delve into the life and artistry of Joyce Wieland. They discuss her revolutionary blend of patriotism and feminism, especially through iconic works like 'O Canada.' The conversation touches on the evolution of Canadian nationalism, including tensions with the U.S. and the significance of her art in shaping national identity. Wieland's ecological themes and personal experiences illuminate her unique contributions to both art and society.

During the Communist era in Bulgaria, anyone who opposed the government could be arrested, sent to the Gulag. For 20 years, Lilia Topouzova has been collecting the stories of those who survived. She recreated a Bulgarian room where her conversations with survivors can be heard, a space about the absence of memory and what that does to a people.

Joan Jonas, an 88-year-old visual artist and pioneer in video and performance art, shares her deep connection with the ocean in an engaging chat with CBC producer Mary Lynk. Jonas reflects on her artistic journey influenced by Cape Breton's landscapes and marine life. She discusses the impact of climate change on art, particularly in her piece 'Moving Off the Land II.' The conversation delves into the unique challenges women artists face and highlights the importance of authenticity and community in her creative process.

Join Stephen Reicher, a social psychologist from the University of St. Andrews, Prerna Singh, a political science professor at Brown University, and Victoria Esses, an expert in intergroup relations from Western University, as they delve into the origins of hatred. They discuss ten reasons that fuel animosity, the interplay of identity and immigration, and the role of media in shaping perceptions. The conversation also highlights strategies for countering hate, emphasizing community engagement and the nuances of overcoming division. Expect insightful analysis mixed with historical context!

Catherine Annau, a writer and filmmaker, dives into the enduring legacy of Louis Hémon's 1913 novel, 'Maria Chapdelaine.' She discusses the emotional journey of Maria, illustrating her struggles with love and identity in the Quebec wilderness. The conversation explores the cultural impact of the novel, its adaptations, and its reflection on traditional versus modern values in society. Annau highlights how this iconic tale continues to resonate, influencing art and literature while shaping modern identities through its timeless themes.

Join Molly Segal, a CBC producer known for her documentary on sharks, along with shark scientist John Chisholm and historian Michaela Thompson, as they delve into how 'Jaws' reshaped our view of great whites. They explore the eerie relationship between cultural myths and ocean life, revealing how fear of sharks was already ingrained in society before the film's 1975 release. Marine biologist Pete Gerges adds flavor by discussing the broader implications of humanity's fascination with sea monsters. It's a deep dive into perception, myth, and reality surrounding these misunderstood creatures.

Connie Walker, an award-winning Indigenous journalist, shares her remarkable journey through journalism and her personal connection to the painful legacy of residential schools. She discusses the vital role of Indigenous storytelling in media and the need for authentic narratives to achieve reconciliation. Walker reflects on uncovering her family's history, revealing complex emotions and the significance of sharing survivor stories. The conversation also touches on the evolution of media coverage regarding Indigenous issues and the hope for future generations to embrace their identities.

Join Sarah Ann Knutson, an expert in the Abbasid Caliphate, John McGinnis, a philosopher specializing in medieval Arabic thought, and John Walensky, a pioneer of open access research, as they explore the transformative Greco-Arabic Translation Movement. They discuss the vibrant intellectual life of 8th-century Baghdad and how Greek texts reshaped Western philosophy. Discover the delicate balance between Greek philosophy and Islamic thought and the lasting impact of these translations on education and collaborative knowledge sharing.

Join Carrie Jenkins, a philosophy professor and author, along with economics expert Marina Adshade, men's health advocate John Oliffe, and writer Mandy Lee Catron, as they tackle Canada's loneliness epidemic. They discuss how social isolation threatens public health and explore the impacts of modern life on connection. Topics like the importance of community ties, the nuances of eudaimonia, and the unique challenges men face in forming relationships come to the forefront. Expect a deep dive into the pressing need for meaningful conversations and a reimagined sense of belonging.

Perdita Felicien, a two-time Olympian and acclaimed sports broadcaster, shares her journey from the track to life’s hurdles. She draws powerful parallels between athletic competition and personal growth, emphasizing resilience and the importance of community support. From overcoming self-doubt to recognizing her mother’s sacrifices, Felicien illustrates how sports reflect life's challenges. Her insights reveal that failure isn't final but a vital part of our arc, encouraging listeners to pursue their dreams with open hearts.