Community News

The Half Decent: Conveying Powerful messages through the Medium of Spray Paint

Published

5 months ago

June 4, 2024

Simone Smith

Photo Credit: Mania Contemporary Arts

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“You have a responsibility as an artist to be a good person.”

“I was sitting in my studio, and I was painting, and the number seven flashed in my mind. I started wondering, why seven? So I messaged my friend Suzie, and told her that I need to use the number seven for my upcoming exhibition. It was April 7th, 7:45…”

There’s something magical about stepping into a world crafted by the imagination of another. It’s more than just seeing. It’s feeling. It’s breathing in creativity.

I had to take a deep breath, my eyes widening at the sight before me. The walls are adorned with vibrant paintings, each one more intricate than the last, each telling its own story. Every spray can, every colour, a testament to the artist’s passion, but it wad not just the art that captivated me.

I noticed the details in the planning, how the lighting perfectly highlighted each piece, casting dramatic shadows and illuminating the smallest details. This was not just an exhibit. This was an experience, a journey through another’s soul…

Here I was again, making my way downtown to another event. With the summer fast approaching, my emails were filling up, and when this one came in, it caught my eye.

“Join us for the exclusive unveiling of “THE CHARIOT” by Toronto-based multimedia artist THE HALF DECENT. Interact with art lovers, industry professionals, and other creatives at an immersive art exhibition you’ll never forget. MAY 10, 2024, 7:00pm – 11:00pm , 214 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON, M5R 2J4,” the email read.

I was instantly artistically aroused, and for good reason. Discovering the work of Mattais (aka, The Half Decent) has revolutionized my understanding and appreciation for creatives who wield the spray can with the same fluidity and mastery as a writer types on a keyboard, or a photographer frames a shot. This artist, whose name resonates with a clandestine allure, transforms urban spaces into vibrant canvases, infusing them with layers of meaning and emotion.

His art, while fully legal, exudes an aura of the forbidden. There’s a sense of raw, unfiltered truth in his pieces, as if the walls themselves are whispering secrets that society often prefers to ignore. His murals are not just visually striking; they are profound commentaries on the human condition, specifically addressing the often overlooked topic of male mental health.

Through bold colors, intricate designs, and poignant symbolism, he sheds light on the internal battles that many men face—struggles with: identity, emotions, and societal expectations. His goal is clear: to spark conversations and bring awareness to the mental health challenges that men endure, often in silence. Each piece is a narrative, a plea for understanding and empathy, urging viewers to look beyond the surface and recognize the depth of these issues.

Of course I wanted to learn even more about this creative genius, so I set up an interview, and he graciously let me into the world of The Half Decent.

“The whole show is about mental health, more specifically men’s mental health,” Mattais tells me. “I have dealt with mental health and depression, and mental health issues run in my family, especially with the men in my family.”

“It is one of the reasons that I choose to use the colour pink for this collection. Pink is feminine colour. The paintings were about embracing what is seen as feminine; emotions. Men usually associate emotions with female energy.”

I was intrigued with his creative process, so I asked him to share a little more about how the images move from his head, onto a canvas.

“I didn’t just want to make pictures, I wanted people to feel; depending on who looks at it, the feeling will change. It is about impact. It is such a trippy feeling to think; I have these images in my head, I put them on the canvas, and people show up to see my work. They don’t just show up, they actually have feedback, and it is usually very positive.”

“What drew you to using spray paint as your medium of expression,” I quieried?

“When I was young, my dad used to draw birds all the time. It was always the same bird. Something about that stuck with me. Most people are artist at heart; we grow up, and sometimes are artist element gets pushed away. This was the case with me. For a long time, my artistic side was pushed aside. I started spray painting, and this kept my artistic side alive. The more I did, the more art I wanted to do. I very quickly started tattooing.”

“What made you choose spray paint as your artistic tool of choice?”

“I am an impatient person, and spray painting is very quick. It is difficult to get small details with spray paint. It is a crazy challenge to get detail. My canvases are practice for what I want to do in the future, which is murals.”

What challenges have you encountered while working with spray paint?

“There is always division between graffiti and street art. When you are in the subculture, graffiti is about a feeling. It is the feeling of painting illegally. I am creating art with spray paint, so sometimes the challenge is within myself. I am doing more legal things, and sometimes I crave going back to illegal graffiti. It is way more respected than doing a legal wall. In some way it is like Gorilla marketing. You have to get more eyes on it. I find ways to continually challenge myself. Can I render the image that I have in my head? what else can I achieve with this medium?”

“How do you see spray paint art evolving in the future? Are there any new techniques or technologies you’re excited to explore?”

“Evolution’s power lies in its relentless adaptability, a trait mirrored in my journey as an artist. Embracing technology, I have transformed my creative process, seamlessly integrating digital tools to enhance and expand my artistic expression. This fusion of tradition and innovation reflects the essence of evolution, propelling my art to new horizons.”

“I am a referenced base artist; I am good at looking at a reference, manipulating the piece. The only thing that matters is the end result. I use AI, and for some people that is controversial. AI is going to play a big part when it comes to the future of art. It will make it easier to convey what you are thinking.”

The Half Decent’s ability to convey such powerful messages through the medium of spray paint is nothing short of remarkable. His work transcends traditional graffiti, positioning it as a legitimate and impactful form of contemporary art. It speaks to the soul, stirring emotions and prompting reflection, much like a poignant novel, or a compelling photograph. His mastery of the spray can elevates his art to a new level, demonstrating that this tool can be as expressive and nuanced as any other in the creative arsenal.

In witnessing his creations, I’ve come to realize the profound potential of street art. It’s a medium that can: reach wide audiences, break down barriers, and provoke thought in ways that few other art forms can. His dedication to highlighting male mental health issues through such a dynamic and accessible platform is both inspiring and transformative, leaving an indelible mark on those who encounter his work.

Community News

Record entries for JCDC FiWi Short Film Competition

Published

3 hours ago

November 5, 2024

TOCaribNews

Winner of the 2023 staging of the JCDC FiWi Short Film Competition ,Joel Miller, (third from left), shares a moment with representatives of the Jamaica Cultural |Development Commission (JCDC), organizers of the event. From left are Shaun Drysdale – Drama and Theatre Arts Development Specialist, Andrew Brodber – Director, Arts Development and Training and Executive Director, Lenford Salmon.

BY RUSHANE FERRON

The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) has received an unprecedented number of submissions for this year’s FiWi Short Film Competition. Launched earlier this year, the competition drew an impressive 47 entries. Currently, 17 shortlisted films are available for public viewing on the JCDC’s YouTube channel, with winners set to be announced on October 24^th.

Executive Director of the JCDC, Mr. Lenford Salmon, expressed pride in the competition’s growing success, stating, “This record number of entries reflects how Jamaicans are embracing the programmes offered by the JCDC. While the Commission is well known for preserving and showcasing our culture, we also recognize the importance of using technology to engage, particularly with our youth. The FiWi Short Film Competition is a perfect example of how we can bring our culture to life in the digital age. The fact that it’s four years old and already experiencing this level of growth is a promising sign for the future.”

Drama and Theatre Arts Development Specialist at the JCDC, Mr. Shaun Drysdale, attributes this year’s spike in entries to the increasing interest in filmmaking, fueled by the proliferation of social media platforms that support storytelling through visuals.

“We are living in a digital age. Filmmaking is now in the hands of the average person on the street via his, or her cell phone. Add to that the inherent creativity of Jamaicans and you are left with a potent combination, which when given the correct environment, can reap tangible rewards. That is what we are experiencing at this time,” Mr. Drysdale said.

The JCDC FiWi Short Film Competition seeks to promote Jamaican culture through the production of films ranging from 3-5 minutes in duration. The films must be based on set criteria, and primarily centred around a Jamaican proverb.

This year’s proverbs are: “Sweet mout fly follow coffin go a hole”; “Puss nuh hab han, but him tek him foot wipe him face”; “Keep clear a ole house, les dem fall dung pon you”; “Rockstone a riber bottom nuh feel sun hot”; and “Finger tink, yuh cyan cut eh trow ‘wey”.

In addition to the proverbs, participants were also given two special themes around which to build the treatment of their films, based on concepts provided by two sponsors. These are: “SEAS IN FOCUS: Uniting for marine managed areas”- National Conservation Trust Fund of Jamaica (NCTFJ) and “Need a passport quick, Get it with just a click”- Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA).

Mr. Drysdale further noted that this year’s shortlisted films represent a variety of the possible genres with eleven dramatic works, two animation films, one comedy, one documentary and two science fiction films. Three of the participants are from the youth category, which is for filmmakers between 12-18 years old and the remaining 14 from adult category.

In addition to viewing the short films online, the public will have an opportunity to view at a special screening to be held on National Heroes’ Day, Monday, October 21^st, 2024, as a feature of JCDC National Heritage Fest and Family Fun Day being held on the south lawn at Devon House in St Andrew.

The FiWi Short Film Competition was started by the JCDC in 2021 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The competition is the brainchild of the JCDC’s Drama and Theatre Arts Unit and encourages Jamaican amateur filmmakers to examine selected Jamaican proverbs and based on their interpretation create the treatment for a short film.

Community News

York Catholic is leading the province in educational achievement

Published

3 hours ago

November 5, 2024

Paul Junor

BY PAUL JUNOR

The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO), which administers the Grade 3, 6 and 9 assessments across Ontario and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT), recently released the 2024 results. For many schools across the province, EQAO results are a snapshot of how students are doing compared to their peers in other schools at the same grade level.

The York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) has maintained a high level of consistency with respect to the outstanding performance of its students on the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). In a media release on Wednesday, October 9^th, 2024, details were revealed about the positive achievements and exemplary accomplishments of its students.

EQAO results were released on September 26^th, 2024. The focus was, “Mathematics Achievement Remains an Area of Focus but Sees Gradual Growth Over Time with Some School Boards Showing Significant Increases; Literacy Achievement Remains High but Shows Some Decline.” The data was based on the 2023-2024 school year during which over 570,000 students wrote the EQAO assessments at the elementary and secondary levels on the English and French-language school systems.

For students who wrote the Grade 3 Assessment of Reading, Writing and Mathematics:

71% met the provincial standard in reading compared to 73% in 2022-2023, and 73% in 2021-2022.
64% of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in writing, compared to 65% in 2022-2023 and 65% in 2021-2022.
61% of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in mathematics, compared to 60% in 2022-2023 and 59% in 2021-2022.

For students who wrote the Grade 6 Assessment of Reading, Writing and Mathematics:

82% met the provincial standard in reading, compared to 84% in 2022-2023 and 85% in 2021-2022.
80% met the provincial standard in writing, compared to 84% in 2022-2023, and 84% in 2021-2022.
50% met the provincial standard in mathematics, compared to 50% in 2022-2023 and 47 % in 2021-2022.

For students who wrote the Grade 9 Assessment in Mathematics:

54% met the provincial standard, compared to 54% in 2022-2023 and 52% in 2021-2022.

For students who wrote the Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT):

85% of first-time eligible students were successful, compared to 85% in 2022-23 and 82% in 2021-2022.
52% of previously eligible students were successful in 2023-2024, compared to 63% in 2022-2023 and 85% in 2021-2022.

John De Faveri, Interim Director of Education of the YCDSB writes, “We are always looking for ways to provide a better school experience, but today is a time to celebrate our students and staff for their excellent academic achievement. I want to particularly highlight the incredible work that is being done in mathematics, which we see in these results. Mathematical literacy is such an important life skill and we are happy to share a love of numbers with our students.”

Results from the Grade 3, 6 and 9 EQAO Mathematics results show improvement in Mathematics compared to 2023. In addition, with respect to reading and writing results for Grade 6 there has been a consistent steady upward rise in the performance of students as 89% and 90% of students met or exceeded provincial standards when compared to the province’s average of 82% and 89%.

Elizabeth Crowe, Chair of the Board of Trustees for YCDSB states, “EQAO results are just one of the ways we see how York Catholic is leading the province in educational achievement. As a Catholic learning community, we want to see every child succeed and EQAO results help us measure our progress toward that noble goal.”

Overall, the percentage of students who participated from YCDSB in Grade 3 and 6 EQAO were 97% and 98%, respectively. For Grade 9 Math assessment there were 93% of eligible students and 97% in the OSSLT.

Any parents or guardians interested in learning about the 2024 EQAO and OSSLT results and individual school results for their children can check the EQAO’s website: https://www.eqao.com/results/.

Community News

York Catholic District School Board plans open house for future high school students

Published

3 hours ago

November 5, 2024

Paul Junor

Credits: Pch.Vector

BY PAUL JUNOR

There is: planning, preparation, and organization that parents, guardians and caregivers must make in York Region as they prepare their children for high school. For those who chose to send them to a high school at the Catholic board, there are open houses planned to make this process easier to navigate.

In a press release on Thursday, October 10^th, 2024, details were revealed about these open houses. It notes, “The open houses will highlight key aspects of each school, including administration, programs, graduation requirements, uniforms, school structure, student opportunities and more. In addition, information about the registration process, including registration dates, deadlines and documents needed to enroll, will be discussed.

The media release mentioned the seven regional programs, and ten Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) programs. They include:

Advanced Placement

Programs with an extended and enriched curriculum allow students to earn credits or advanced standing at most universities.

English as a Second Language

(ESL) and English Literacy Development (ELD)

English as a Second Language and English Literacy Development programs assist English language learners from diverse linguistic and education backgrounds in attaining English language proficiency.

French Immersion (FI)

Students who completed the Elementary French Immersion programs, or equivalent can continue with the immersion program to earn a French immersion certificate upon graduation.

High Performer Athlete (HPA)

An academic-based program for student-athletes participating in competitive-level athletics. Students benefit from a flexible timetable to help balance their academic and athletic commitments and earn high school credits for the work they put into their training.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

A rigorous and intellectually challenging pre-university course of study that allows students to earn an IB Diploma upon graduation, recognized in Canada and abroad.

Regional Arts (RAP)/Integrated Regional Arts Program(iRAP)

Students specialize in drama, dance, visual arts, digital media arts, instrumental music, or vocal music- while obtaining their high school diploma. In the iRAP, students experience their learning through an integrated model where the curriculum is explored in relation to the interconnectedness of the individual, the community, and the world.

STREAM Program

Students explore real-world challenges and use the design thinking process to develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills, guided by the traditional Catholic social teachings. This academic program uses an interdisciplinary approach to inquiry and problem-based learning.

Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)

Students can obtain a diploma with a specialist in either: Arts and Culture; Aviation and Aerospace; Business; Health and Wellness; Hospitality and Tourism; Information and Communication Technology; Justice, Community Safety and Emergency Services, Manufacturing; or Non-Profit. Every YCDSB school offers a SHSM program.

Parents or guardians who live in York Region and are interested in any programs can check: Website: www.ycdsb.ca