Photo supplied. Lacey Todd’s original artwork on Rapport magazine’s cover
The cover of the 2018 edition of Rapport magazine, a Journal of the Ontario History and Social Science Teachers Association, was created by grade 10 Thomas A Stewart Secondary School (TASS) student Lacey Todd. The daughter of former Millbrook Councillor and Millbrook Times Publisher, Lynda Todd, Lacey is currently studying in the Integrated Arts program and honing her skills to become a graphic designer.
Two years ago, Valerie Kent of Cavan Art Gallery helped Lacey and another local student develop the art portfolios that were used by adjudicators to determine eligibility for their high school art programs. After researching the portfolio requirements, the students worked together under Kent’s guidance, developing carefully executed, unique, imaginative works that ultimately gained them acceptance into the Integrated Arts program at TASS.
The opportunity to develop this commissioned magazine cover arose during a visit by the magazine’s publisher, Risa Gluskin, to the local gallery. During casual conversation, Gluskin learned that Valerie was also an art instructor, and asked if she could recommend a high school student to develop the feature artwork. Having witnessed Lacey’s imagination and perseverance, Kent knew the fifteen year old was up for the task and passed along her contact information.
The theme was to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary and give an indication of the country’s future. Lacey took that idea and using a gelatin plate technique designed the cover, incorporating the theme into the art with the words “tout est possible” which means anything is possible. Her colour selections echo this national theme and the optimistic view of the country’s future. Lacey explains, “Red and white are for the Canadian Flag. Blue is for the sky is the limit. Gold is for the sun shining on Canada and the future is golden.”
Lacey was honoured to have her artwork selected for this publication, and appreciates the confidence demonstrated by her former instructor that opened the door for this exciting project. The work also represents a significant addition to her portfolio of work, and a notable step in the early stage of her professional journey.