RDP visual art instructor wins ACIFA Distinguished Instructor Award

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RDP says Blair brings extensive knowledge and experience to the classroom, as well as a deep passion for teaching art at the institution. That passion shapes every aspect of her approach.

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“At its core, teaching is about creating the conditions for students to take risks, fail, find their voice and build something meaningful,” said Blair. “RDP has a caring community among faculty, staff and students. Teaching doesn’t always feel like work when you have that connection.”

She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Lakehead University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Calgary.

She also studied internationally at the Royal College of Art in London, England, and the Studio Art Centres International in Florence, Italy.

“I really value that teaching is reciprocal, and I’m always learning from my students,” she added. “Their perspectives, their questions and the way they approach materials continue to shape and evolve my own practice.”

Blair’s role at the Polytechnic has also opened doors for interdisciplinary exploration, particularly through collaborations with RDP’s Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing-Technology Access Centre (CIM‑TAC).

“The polytechnic model is a great fit for my practice as an artist,” Blair explained. “My research sits at the intersection of art, women’s health, medical humanities and technology. Working in the CIM-TAC has allowed me to bring interdisciplinary research directly into the studio, giving students insight into how art can connect with health and technology.”