Megan Pegg is an exceptional artist whose work has left an enduring mark on Mount Saint Vincent University. Before graduating from the MountAbility program this spring, Megan was entrusted with the task of designing special stoles to be worn by MountAbility graduates, to symbolize their remarkable accomplishments. Her stoles were worn for the first time at MSVU’s spring 2023 convocation.
Megan’s artistic journey began in 2009 when she started volunteering with Team Possibles, an art program organized by the Halifax NS Down Syndrome Society and led by the renowned artist Renee Forrestall. Through the program, Megan discovered that needle felting was her favourite medium. “What I love about felting is the texture and the brightness of the colours. I found that felting as a medium allowed me to fully express my artistic ability,” said Megan.
Born with Cerebral Palsy, Megan discovered the MountAbility program through a friend, viewing it as an exciting opportunity to continue her education. The program provides a variety of courses, fostering an inclusive learning environment where everyone can reach their full potential.
After the first group of MountAbility students graduated last spring, there was a desire to provide them with something special to wear over their shoulders during the ceremony, in place of traditional academic hoods. Megan was approached by Dr. Cornelia Schneider, a professor in the Faculty of Education at MSVU, to design the stoles for future graduates.
Drawing inspiration from the university’s colour scheme and logo, Megan created a simple and timeless design. She created the stoles by felting the design onto wool blankets, using vibrant colours and represent the graduates’ diverse disciplines and personalities.
Wet felting tightened the fibres and, after rinsing and drying, the stoles were ready to be worn. Megan also crafted five pins for graduates to customize their stoles, representing various aspects of the MountAbility program and the disability community.
Now that she has graduated, Megan plans to continue developing as an artist and hopes to have a solo art show. Meanwhile, at MSVU, her artistic achievements will be showcased in convocation ceremonies for years to come as future MountAbility graduates cross the stage wearing the stoles she created.
MSVU’s history is rich with the stories of countless people who’ve had an impact on the university and in the broader community. Over the course of 2023, we’ll feature mini stories about 150 MSVU students, faculty, staff and alum. Check back often to meet more amazing MSVU people!