In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and co-hosts Matthew Cudmore and Matthew Stewart sit down with Jason Van Bruggen, a Dutch-Canadian visual artist behind the 80 Years of Freedom project. They discuss Jason's artistic journey, the importance of visual storytelling, and the emotional impact of sharing personal histories, particularly from the civilian perspective during wartime. The conversation highlights the significance of commemoration and the challenges faced in preserving these narratives for future generations. Jason shares insights into his creative process and the upcoming exhibitions related to his project, emphasizing the need to connect with and learn from the past.

takeaways

• Jason van Bruggen is driven by curiosity and human interest.
• Legacy is a significant focus for Jason in his work.
• Visual storytelling can evoke emotional responses and change behavior.
• The civilian experience of war is often overlooked in narratives.
• Commemoration is crucial in understanding the impact of conflict.
• Connecting generations through shared stories is vital.
• Many survivors of WWII are reluctant to share their experiences.
• The importance of asking questions to elicit personal histories.
• Art can serve as a powerful medium for remembrance.
• The 80 Years of Freedom project aims to honor and share these stories.