For the Grammy-nominated musician, visual artist and 2026 ECU Honorary Degree recipient, the key to art is to harness your emotions and make people feel seen.
Neko Case wants her music to help people feel less alone and provide comfort.
This is evident in her expansive career, which ranges from music, visual art and music production as Neko has carved her own lane to express herself through her chosen mediums.
NPR has called her “essentially peerless,” and Rolling Stone named her “One of America’s best and most ambitious singer-songwriters,” but that experimental artistry was forged during her studies at Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU) in the 90s and 00s.
“Art school for me was very much about learning how I worked and how to make sure I got things done. It was such a productive time in my life,” said Neko. “It was the first time I felt like I was capable of something. I never really tried to reinvent myself. I think I’m just busy learning in front of people. I’m willing to fail in front of people, laugh at myself, or mess up.
While at ECU, Neko discovered Vancouver’s thriving punk rock scene, and sensed that her underlying love for music could turn into something more while in the city. Bouncing around from iconic bands such as playing drums on tour with Cub, then transitioning to being a vocalist in Maow and joining the super-group, The New Pornographers, Neko was part of a new wave of bands and musicians weaving in striking visuals to their melodies.
“Vancouver specifically was blessed with a wealth of really good bands of every genre, and everyone hung out together, so it was very communal and encouraging.”
Neko’s upcoming projects highlight her willingness to experiment and test the boundaries as she launches the musical version of the Academy Award-winning film Thelma & Louise at the Young Vic in London this Fall. Harnessing female rage is a theme Neko explores in her work throughout her career.
“I want to comfort people. I want them to feel not alone. I still have plenty of rage, though. Women aren’t supposed to have rage, but I don’t mean to use it as something that you spray all over people, but using it as a generator to make things like a power source.”
Although she took a winding path to music and art, Neko encourages people to trust their instincts and the muse will follow.
“Don’t forget what you love about creating things. If it feels wrong, absolutely don’t do it. Wash dishes in a restaurant and make your own art before you go and work for something soulless. Just try to connect with people. We need more connection in the world. It’s like the tools that people are given that they can do anything they like with it. It’s really astounding and you can really do anything.”