I am incredibly grateful for the life-changing opportunity to further explore my art practice at SOVA. As a mature student and self-taught artist, I have gained valuable skills and discovered new mediums that I hope to incorporate into my work moving forward. The hands-on nature of the classes—spending time on the land, learning about Dawson’s history and its connection to us as artists—combined with the experience of living within the community, has made my time at SOVA truly fulfilling. It’s more than just the school; it’s the entire experience of creating art while being immersed in this unique place.
— Bronwyn Butterfield (SOVA class of 2024-25)
 
“Coming to SOVA I have completely reimagined what my creative practice could look like in the future.

I’ve met some incredible local artists and have had the privilege of getting a lot of one-on-one time with incredibly caring and committed instructors.

I’ve also learned so much about Tr’ondek Hwech’in land and perspectives from amazing people and talented artists like Jackie Olson and Darcy Tara.

The close-knit community and the lovely, supportive people here are really what make it so worthwhile to start my journey through art school at SOVA, and I’m deeply grateful to be here!”
— Hayden Grace (SOVA Class 2022-23)
 
“SOVA is an integral part of Yukon’s artistic community, with what feels like the entire town invested in its well being and creative success.” 
— Justin Apperley and Emily Chudnovsky (SOVA Class 2015) are artistic collaborators who met in Dawson City.