Canadian cultural identity is deeply rooted in and interwoven with the arts. Whatever form it may take, the art we experience on a daily basis contributes to shaping our identity both as a country and as individuals. 

But how do we define identity? Is it different for each person who lives in Canada? Does one’s perspective change based on where they live? For this series of Spotlight articles focused on art and identity, we asked artists across Canada about their own inspirations and influences, about which works of art left a mark on them and which artists’ work contributed to their own cultural identity as Canadians. We hear from actor and playwright Chris O’Neill, director, producer and performer Lianna Makuch and theatre director and programmer Estelle Shook.

https://canadacouncil.ca/spotlight/2026/09/art-and-canadian-cultural-identity