“Art is the expression of something true. It is a sharing of something real that allows readers, listeners, and viewers to feel. Art is not the sacred territory of geniuses, it is beautifully mundane and available to everyone. Art makes us feel and that makes us more fully alive.”

Shannon Linton

Shannon Linton, singer songwriter and climate activist, serves on NFOTA’s Program Committee.

Who you are?

I am a singer-songwriter, music educator and climate activist. I am also the mother of two wonderful children. I was born and raised in Northumberland County, and am proud to live on my fourth generation family farm. I am also the co-founder of SONG (Sounds of the Next Generation) and through that program I direct children and youth choirs.

Why do you believe in the Northumberland Festival of the Arts?

I love music, literature and arts of every form, and more and more I believe our local arts community is world-class. I think artists and audiences can only benefit from more community connections, more collaboration, and more local arts events. I believe Northumberland Festival of the Arts will be a wonderful chance for attendees to discover new artists, indulge in their favourites, and connect with the passions and emotions that are the lifeblood of our community.

Any passions and talents you want to share?

I discovered my love of music and singing very young, and I am lucky enough to now call it my career. Through singing in choir and writing and performing my own music, I get to spend my time immersed in beauty. (You can listen to my songs at https://shannonlinton.bandcamp.com.) I am also extremely passionate about the climate and doing the work to make significant positive changes in the way our society treads on the earth.

What are your roots or groups – connections in the community?

I am a born and raised Northumberland farm girl, and returning to live in Plainville means I know all of my neighbours. My family and childhood friend roots in this community are deep, and I feel so connected and supported because of that. The groups I love being part of are SONG, the Safe Harbour chamber choir, and my recreational hockey and baseball teams. I also love volunteering with the Cultivate Festival and Blue Dot Northumberland.

What does “art” mean to you?

Art is the expression of something true. It is a sharing of something real that allows readers, listeners, and viewers to feel. Art is not the sacred territory of geniuses, it is beautifully mundane and available to everyone. Art makes us feel and that makes us more fully alive.

Northumberland Festival of the Arts will take place across Northumberland County from September 16 – October 2, 2022.

Northumberland Festival of the Arts is a volunteer-run not-for-profit arts organization.

To volunteer for NFOTA, please contact info@festivalofthearts.ca

To help support our events, please send your donation by Interac to fundraising@festivalofthearts.ca