Alisa McRonald’s work will be displayed in the front window of the Drake, which is viewable by the public at all times. It will also be displayed in the interior lobby and café.

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‘My Little Arcana’ currently consists of five textile works created using punch needle and weaving techniques.

“I’m a Gen X, feminist, witchy queerdo from a small town.

Growing up in the ’80s, all I had to free my mind were my aunt’s punk rock record collection, Fashion Television, the occasional free MuchMusic weekend, and the occult section of the local library.

Looking back, I can pinpoint exact moments that had – and still have – profound influence on me. These became ‘My Little Arcana’.

It started with ‘The Creep’. He’s a very ’70s-looking guy who represents every gross jerk who ever creeped on me as a young person.

Next came ‘The Witch’. She’s a culmination of all the things that have always fascinated me about witches, both historically and in pop culture. She is my Muse.

Then there’s ‘The Princess’. This take-charge type is no helpless maiden in a tower. She is Princess Leia, a rebel and a smartass with great hair.

‘The Cat’ is a big part of my life and my art. Cats are my familiars. The musical ‘Cats’ sparked my love of both theatre, and rock music.

Finally, ‘The Rock Star’ represents artistry, boundary-pushing, and sexuality as embodied by Bowie, glam, and punk.”

– Alisa McRonald