Nadia Caluza Hussein

[she/her]

Open Studies, 1st year (BA in Psychology graduate)

Born and raised in Mohkinstsis (Treaty 7 Territory). I'm a creative of Filipino and Ethiopian roots. I completed my B.A in Psychology and returned to school after honoring and naming my creativity- a part of me I dismissed for most of my life. In my journey of healing from mental illness, art helped me connect with my authentic self. While I've always been self-taught, I've returned to school for further training and education in the arts. I'm working towards applying for a Master's program in Art Therapy. My ever evolving art style is 'cute but sinister'. I want to use my art for advocacy.

Too Cute for Violence, 2026, Photography, 61 x 91

TRIGGER WARNING: assault, violence.

Even with ties cut, the harm done by the perpetrator who assaulted me is felt deeply.

The perpetrator (who indeed had a few cans of this beer that night) is represented by an intact Kokanee can peaking from the shadows.

The dead plants represent the skewed morals of the perpetrator who turned out to possess misogynistic and racist views. It also represents the deterioration of trust given to this person who was once considered a friend.

Bunny (the toy) is toppled over in despair. I saw Bunny as a representation of me coping with the aftermath of the event while trying to get by in school and daily life.

The crushed Milkis can depicts the harm. The exhaustion of trying to heal and understand what can’t be understood: the perpetrator’s actions and lack of accountability.

The small bouquet has evolved in meaning for me: It’s a reminder that what took place is not my fault. I'm not defined by the bad things that happen to me. It’s a reminder that I'm a kind and beautiful human. I have lots of love to give this world. I'm hopeful for my future again.