A journey of passion, persistence, and creativity

In the halls of UFV’s School of Creative Arts, where passion and creativity thrive, Hannah Bricknell, a first-year Bachelor of Media Arts student, is carving her own artistic path. Since childhood, art has been more than just a passion—it has been a way of making sense of the world. Drawing since the age of five, Hannah found that art provided both a sense of calm and a means of communication, especially as she navigated the challenges of a learning disability that affected her verbal expression.

“Over time, drawing became the best way for me to communicate my ideas and thoughts,” she shares.

Now, as she steps into the next phase of her journey, UFV’s Bachelor of Media Arts program is providing the space for her to refine her skills, explore new mediums, and discover where her artistic talents can take her. At UFV, she can experiment with different creative disciplines before deciding on a specific career path. Also, she is excited to apply for a co-op program, which provides hands-on experience, helping students explore professional opportunities related to their studies. But Hannah already knows her superpower: “Creativity and imagination are probably the most important skills to keep. They’re key in critical problem-solving.”

An artist getting ready to shine.

In January 2025, Hannah received formal recognition for her art for the first time when she won the Emerging Artist Award at the 20th Annual Arty Awards, organized by the Abbotsford Arts Council. It was a moment that reinforced her belief in her work and solidified her confidence as an artist.

The pieces that she exhibited reflected her artistic journey and individual experiences. One of her most meaningful works is a painting titled “How I Process”, which is about her learning disability, using an analogy she often shares with others.

“On one side, there’s a messy room, symbolizing my brain. On the other side, there’s a tidy room, representing how other people’s brains work.”

Through her art, Hannah translates personal challenges into visual storytelling, offering a perspective that is both intimate and universal.

Recently, she was given the opportunity to contribute to an anthology comic, collaborating with experienced comic artists—some of whom previously helped her create her first comic book – a project she created during Grade 11 called “Two Faces”.

As she continues to grow as an artist, her story serves as an inspiration to those forging their own creative paths. Hannah Bricknell’s journey is just beginning—but with her talent, dedication, and ever-evolving skills, the possibilities ahead are limitless.