Joanna Gilman Hyde is a 1983 graduate of The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York and holds dual Canadian and American citizenship. An accomplished public artist, she has created and participated in several notable public art projects, including Self Organizing Galaxy on the roof of 5 World Trade Center (1984), Bracelet for the Statue of Liberty (1986), Satellite Art for Extraterrestrials (1989), and Stratospheric Universe (2017), which commemorated the 50th anniversary of the 1967 Shag Harbour UFO Incident.
In addition to her visual arts practice, Joanna is an author and poet. She wrote the book So Long Sam and maintains an active poetry blog. Her home and studio on The Hawk, Cape Sable Island, is known as M(eye) Living Gallery, a unique creative space open to visitors by appointment.
Joanna brings extensive experience in visual arts, writing, promotion, communications, media relations, and project organization. Her creative vision, strong communication skills, and ability to connect with audiences have made her a valued contributor to numerous artistic and cultural initiatives. In addition to continuing with her art, Joanna has self published her book So Long Sam and has a poetry blog.
Beyond her work with the Society, Joanna serves on the Board of the Shelburne County Arts Council and volunteers with the Yarmouth Art & Craft Society and the Land’s End Arts & Culture Centre in Yarmouth.
Within the Shag Harbour UFO Incident Society, Joanna is particularly passionate about the Exhibition Committee and the UFO XPO Committee, where she helps shape engaging visitor experiences and promote the story of the Shag Harbour Incident through art, interpretation, and public outreach.