Grow North Awards

Grow North Awards

NYA Website grow north awards

NYA Grow North Awards

The Grow North Awards (GNA) acknowledge the significant contribution that North York based artists make to the vibrancy, arts and culture of the North York community. This awards competition offers the opportunity to receive city-wide recognition from a jury of artistic visionaries.

The Awards recognize emerging, established, and community artists in North York and spotlight their contributions to the community and their respective disciplines. Our goal is to highlight the achievements of these artists and to build our local community’s appreciation for the art that is being created in North York.

The Grow North Awards are dedicated specifically to artists based in North York from a variety of disciplines including, but not limited to: Indigenous arts, Disability arts, dance, literature, media arts, multi and inter-arts, music, theatre, visual arts, film.

 

Please note that these awards are self-nomination only. Artists can submit to one of the following awards:

  • Emerging Artist Award:
    The Emerging Artist Award aims to celebrate the achievements and artistic merit of a rising North York artist in any field. This award not only honors the past achievements of the artist but also champions the future potential of their work. The artists must have at least 2 years of an independent arts practice. The artists must be in the early stages of their career with a brief history of public presentation of their work. This award is a $1,000 prize.
  • Established Artist Award:
    The Established Artist Award honors a professional artist who has been creating and showing their work for an extended period. Their work has made a significant impact on arts and culture in North York, and the artist has established themselves as an artistic staple in the local arts community. This award is a $2,000 prize.
  • Community Arts Award:
    The Community Arts Award celebrates an individual or collective that has impacted North York communities through their creative programming. The work of this individual or collective will have increased public access to art and contributed to local appreciation for the respective artform. The artist or collective must have a clear history of demonstrated commitment to community engagement through the arts. This award is a $1,000 prize.
Grow North Awards

View the Information Session at the link below:

 

SUBMISSIONS ARE NOW CLOSED. STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT ITERATION OF THE GROW NORTH AWARDS IN 2025!

Meet our 2024 Recipients!

Ruben Esguerra

Established Artist Award

Meet Ruben

Beny Esguerra (Established Artist) is a Toronto-based, award-winning multi-instrumentalist, producer, spoken-word poet, and arts educator who arrived in Canada as a political refugee with his family from Colombia. Rooted in cultural activism, his work bridges traditional Colombian music with contemporary Hip Hop, earning him recognition such as the 2020 Ontario Arts Foundation Arts Educator Award and two back-to-back JUNO nominations for his latest albums. Beny’s collaborations have garnered international acclaim, including nominations at the International Indigenous Hip Hop Music Awards and wins in Music to Life’s Hope Rises II contest. His most recent project, “Eterno,” with Los Gaiteros de Ovejas, celebrates cross-cultural collaboration and musical heritage. Additionally, he co-leads the NTM Wheel it Studios mobile project, empowering Jane-Finch artists through mentorship and access to resources. Beny is a PhD (ABD) candidate in Musicology/Ethnomusicology, specializing in Colombian traditional music and Hip Hop culture.

Rashmi Mishra

Emerging Artist Award

Meet Rashmi

Rashmi Mishra (Emerging Artist) is a celebrated Indian dancer, choreographer, and educator with over 30 years of experience. Trained under the legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji, she is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Kathak, deepening her expertise in this classical art. Rashmi has received prestigious awards in India such as the “Saraswati Samman,” “Braj Ratna Award,” and the “Best Kathak Dancer Award” from Governor, along with international honors from the “Book of World Records, London,” and the “Medallion of Honour of Nadezda Petrovic” in Serbia.

Rashmi has performed across the globe, including in Denmark, Dubai, and Bangkok. After relocating from India to North York two years ago, she expanded her Rashmi Academy of Performing Arts (RaPa) with branches in both Mumbai and North York. She has showcased her talent in Toronto at various events like Nuit Blanche, Rhythms of Canada, Festival of India etc. She also founded the North York Diwali Fest at Mel Lastman Square, bringing the communities together through vibrant cultural celebrations.

THE GREENPRINT NETWORK

Community Arts Award

Meet GREENPRINT

The Greenprint Network (Community Arts Award) believes that the arts are a powerful catalyst for community building and personal development. By providing a dynamic platform for young creatives to collaborate, the organization facilitates not just artistic exchanges, but also the formation of supportive networks that propel its members towards both individual and collective success.

Its programs and initiatives are designed to equip emerging artists with the tools and opportunities necessary to thrive in the creative industry. From interdisciplinary workshops and mentorship to live performances and exhibitions, the Greenprint Network strives to create an environment that is conducive to creativity and growth.

Through these efforts, the Greenprint Network aims to transform the landscape of Toronto’s artistic community, making it more inclusive, supportive, and vibrant. It is committed to being a cornerstone for young artists, helping them to lay down strong foundations for their artistic careers while contributing positively to the cultural fabric of the city.

Patrick de Belen

Established Artist Award - Honorable Mention

Meet Patrick

Patrick de Belen (Established Artist Award – Honorable Mention) is a rare breed of artist. This Toronto-based Filipino-Canadian spoken word poet, performer, speaker, filmmaker and educator is one whose formidable acclaim as a performance artist and writer is equaled by his commitment to his community, and his status as an enduring source of insight, energy and mentorship for young poets across North America. As a performer, Patrick has garnered praise and admiration for his ability to blend sharp social commentary with an exhaustless wit, charm and creative candour. This combination of talents has made him a national slam champion, as he was at the 2012 Canadian Festival of Spoken Word, and a performer of note on such platforms as CBC, TED Talk, the NBA, NFL and others. He is also the first ever recipient of the Spoken Word Youth Poet of Honour award at YouthCanSlam 2013 and the 2019 Canadian Poet of Honour at Canada’s national poetry festival, an award he won on the basis of his dual talents asa poet of remarkable ability and an educator of enduring devotion, passion and intelligence. Off the stage, he is committed to his work in arts education/mentorship and curating multigenre showcases; involved in partnerships with a long list of institutions and organizations including jails, schools, health centres, libraries and more.

Merey Ismailova

Emerging Artist Award - Honorable Mention

Meet Merey

Merey Ismailova (Emerging Artist Award – Honorable Mention) is an award-winning dancer, choreographer, and physical theatre artist based in Toronto, originally from Almaty, Kazakhstan. She received her professional training at the Sputnik school in Moscow and Ballet Creole School in Toronto, studying contemporary, ballet, modern and jazz. She has created numerous original choreographies performed in North America, Europe, and Asia. As the artistic director of The Ismailova Theatre of Dance, Merey has produced 14 full-length productions for North York audiences and organized community dance workshops for immigrant youth winning Newcomer Artist Award twice from the Toronto Arts Foundation.

Pam Lau

Community Arts Award - Honorable Mention

Meet Pam Lau

Pam Lau (Community Arts Award – Honorable Mention): PAM LAU is an independent photographer and educator. Ambassador for Canon Canada and Curatorial Advisory Board Member for PhotoED Magazine. Frustrated with a culture of gatekeeping and lack of transparency, Pam co-founded Ecru; a grassroots educational initiative for those who face financial, cultural and institutional barriers to entering creative industries.

Meet our 2023 Recipients!

Brian Jiang

Discipline: Visual Arts

Meet Brian

Brian Jiang (they/she) is a queer trans multi-disciplinary artist of Chinese-descent based in Tkaronto. Their practice comprises of animation, illustration, painting, graphic design and beyond. As an artist collaborator working within the cultural sector, their arts-practice is informed by the love for their communities. Brian’s work draws upon mythology, the natural world, and lived experiences to explore the ties between identity, diasporic migration, kinship, and ecological connections. They have been commissioned by Pride Toronto, Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival, Inside Out Film Festival, Maisonneauve Magazine, LinkedIn StreetARToronto and more. Their work can be found at @_brianjiang.

This microgrant will be used to create a series of paintings that explore the implications of “passing” through my lens as a trans racialized individual.

Jay-Marie Phillips: pothound

Discipline: Music

Meet pothound

Jay-Marie Phillips, known as pothound, is a Trinidadian-Canadian musician, producer, and artist. Her music spans electro-pop and acoustic indie soul, exploring themes of identity, solitude, and the clash of cultures. pothound’s debut record, Video Garden is a concept album, drawing on visual themes of neon noir, solarpunk, and urban jungles.

Jay’s practice is intertwined with identity and belonging as a queer, trans, Scarborough-born, Trinidadian-raised artist and organizer living in Toronto. Her work strives to find meaning in being an outcast. In 2020, Jay co-founded Cooler Fete, a queer Caribbean diaspora party, and is one of the resident DJs.

This microgrant will be used to help aid in the creation and development of visual elements for my debut project, Video Garden, using 3D animation and illustration.

Nailah Renuka

Discipline: Circus and Dance

Meet Nailah

Nailah Renuka is a circus and dance artist celebrated for her exceptional athleticism, curious spirit, and captivating stage presence. Her creative approach prioritizes interdisciplinary collaborations among diverse visual, musical, and movement-based art disciplines as well as between various circus disciplines like contortion, pole, and lyra. She weaves transitional patterns and evocative imagery into her work, channelling the full spectrum of human physicality and the intricacies of musicality in her explorations of what it means to be human. Most recently Nailah has worked with Les 7 Doigts as a pole artist in the creation of a new show.

This microgrant will fund 8-month contortion, hand-balancing, and acrodance training with Samantha Halas and Katelyn Ettinger to enhance skills, artistry, and receive mentorship in the circus industry.

Natalie Paton

Discipline: Writing and Filmmaking

Meet Natalie

Natalie Paton is a writer and filmmaker who tells stories about womanhood, immigration, generational relationships, Western society, and power dynamics. She loves calling the multicultural city of Toronto her home and is continuously inspired by her experiences and the experiences of those around her. Her work focuses on a mix of fiction and documentary with the goal of contextualizing the systems around us through character-driven stories.

This microgrant will be used largely to pay for location-based filming in North York, interviewing local residents, and renting equipment for filming dates (est. 4 days).

Yago Mesquita

Discipline: Theatre

Meet Yago

Yago Mesquita is an emerging, queer Brazilian-Canadian theatre artist from Toronto, ON. He is a playwright, performer, and producer with values of authenticity, care, connection, creativity, and fun grounding his artistic practice.

Yago creates character-driven work from a young, queer, first-generation Canadian lens, heavily informed by his experience and that of friends, family, and fellow artists. Yago is keen to push the boundaries of theatrical storytelling through highly imaginative, poetic, sensitive, and revealing multidisciplinary work that uses stylistic surreal elements that divorce itself from realism.

This microgrant will support a self-directed experimentation process within the context of ABfe47 to better understand its theatrical form, which is essential to ABfe47’s development.

Meet our 2022 Recipients!

Aalyaland

Discipline: Pottery and Ceramics

Meet Aalyaland

Aalyaland is a Pottery and ceramics Artist that will use the Grow North Micro Grant to create a ceramic art installation entitled “Vigilaunties” depicting tea cups with red flags –spilling the tea on toxic aunties that perpetuate patriarchal mindsets and societal norms through their behaviours towards people of all genders.

“First and foremost, my goal is to make people laugh because of how relatable and unfiltered this project is. Most South Asian womxn and non-binary folks I know have experienced toxic aunty behaviour. My hope is to create an art installation that people capture, share, and send to aunties via WhatsApp (the App that they most use to send forwards on to their peers).” – Aalyaland

 

Anaiah Lebreton

Discipline: Multimedia

Meet Anaiah

Anaiah Lebreton is a Multimedia Artist that will use the Grow North Micro Grant to create a music video – merging graphic design with music production and videography to an original song highlighting queer love. On the second slide, you can find examples of Anaiah’s past work featuring snippets from a collaborative zine “Youth In Revolt, Rookies With Friends.”

“This project is important to me because I see it as an opportunity to actualize a vision of powerful rebellious Queer people I often see missing from media spaces” – Anaiah Lebreton

Miguel Caba

Discipline: Visual Arts

Meet Miguel

Miguel Caba is a visual artist/painter that will use the Grow North Micro Grant towards research on the demolition of apartment housing in North York and the stories of the people that live there and then produce art objects based on that research.

“This subject is important to me because I have also experienced displacement in North York as the building I have lived in for my whole life was demolished to build new condos. I know that this is not an isolated experience since many buildings are pending demolition or have already been demolished in North York and in each of those buildings resides hundreds of people all with their own stories similar to mine about navigating displacement.” – Miguel Caba

Pierre Poussin

Discipline: Sculpture

Meet Pierre

Pierre Poussin is a large-scale sculptor that will use the Grow North Micro Grant to learn and refine his skills of digital-hand-sculpting, helping his concept development and fabrication processes become much more efficient.

“This activity is very important to me because it would allow me to bring my digital art-making processes and public art skills to the next level. I want to take the time to learn digital sculpting, because I will be able to use this newly-acquired skill within my public art practice. I will hopefully be able to digitally-sculpt just as effectively and efficiently as sculpting with clay.” – Pierre Poussin

Shan Fernando

Discipline: Theatre

Meet Shan

Shan Fernando is a theatre artist, who will use the Grow North Micro Grant to fund research and writing of a new play, in addition to paying for a playwriting workshop.

“My play is about an affluent Toronto family, the Austins, as they navigate mental health, addiction, and the acceptance of one’s sexuality”- Shan Fernando

Shanika Lewis Waddell

Discipline: Music

Meet Shanika

Musician Shanika Lewis-Waddel will use the Grow North Micro Grant to fund the creation of a new work mixing electronic/ambient/experimental music with steelpan.

“I am curious to incorporate styles/instruments/sounds that aren’t commonly heard together. With a goal of play, exploration, curiosity to see what new things can expand from these often separated genres…I plan to interview my 94 year old maternal grandfather who lived the majority of his life in Trinidad. I want to incorporate some of his stories into the music and let that guide the creation. I want this to be a project that allows me to learn more about him and Trinidad through his eyes.”- Shanika Lewis-Waddel

This program is supported by:

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Grow North – Guest Artist

Grow North – Guest Artist

GROW NORTH GUEST ARTIST

Grow North – Guest Artist

Join us on a creative journey with the Grow North Guest Artist Program, previously known as the Grow North Creative Residency. We’re excited to welcome our Summer/Fall Guest Artists, Ashlee Campbell and Laura Zizek! Over the next two months, they’ll be curating a series of social media and blog posts that showcase their unique creative paths.

This program invites artists and arts collectives to develop their work using our space while sharing their practice with the local community through North York Arts’ platforms. Our Guest Artists are at the heart of this program, and we’re thrilled to pass the mic to them.

Stay tuned as Ashlee and Laura share their stories and artistic insights with our community!

TASNEEM DAIRYWALA CREATIVE RESIDENT

Laura Zizek – Summer/Fall 2024

NYA is thrilled to announce that our Summer/Fall 2024 Guest Artist is Laura Zizek. Laura will be curating a series of social media and blog posts over the next two months.

Laura has always been a creative person, whether it’s with embroidery, trying to make clothes, painting, etc., different creative practices have captured her attention throughout the years but since she started making stop motion animations she hasn’t wanted to stop. When her life gets too busy, and she hasn’t made space to make a new stop motion video she misses it.

The first stop motion video she ever made was in 2010, it was my summer break, and she was bored. So, she went into the backyard, found some white rocks and spelled out the word ‘hello’ and then they transformed into a squiggly line. From then on, she slowly started playing around with stop motion animations. She would animate the books she read the previous month, and each month she would find new ways to show what she read, and she made these regularly for years.

GET TO KNOW LAURA Q&A

We asked Laura a few questions to give you a glimpse into the creative mind behind her practice. Get to know the inspiration and vision that fuels her artistry!

Question 1: What is one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned through your art practice?
 
To take breaks when you’re frustrated with what you’re creating. Whether that is for a couple of hours or an entire day. Often the problem is that I am being too judgmental of my work and comparing my current project to a past stop motion project, which is not a fruitful place to be. So, when I do take a break and come back, I am in a better headspace and find that when I rewatch what I have made so far that I actually like it and it isn’t actually the worst thing I have ever made, that’s never been the case! And if there is a problem then I can figure out what needs to be changed or even possibly start over. Which isn’t as big a deal as I thought it was a couple of hours or days ago because going through it the first time I learned what I shouldn’t do, and now I have a better idea what I need to do this time.
 
Question 2: What projects will you be focusing on during your time as a guest artist with North York Arts?
 
I love libraries and I have been wanting to visit more Toronto library branches so instead of just visiting all 100 branches, I wanted to make it more difficult for myself, so I am going to make a stop motion animation of every Toronto Library branch (this will probably take me years, which is exciting! and daunting!). Since I am the guest artist for North York Arts, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to focus on libraries that are in North York. I am excited to announce that the first North York library I will be animating will be the Brookbanks branch.
 
I also want to keep myself open to whatever inspiration may come my way during my time as one of North York Arts guest artists. It is incredibly helpful for my practice to have set times where I can work on my stop motion animations, so I am excited to see what I am able to make during my two months!
 
Question 3: In what ways has North York influenced your art practice?
 
I love walking around different neighbourhoods that are new to me, which means exploring different areas of North York. Whether it’s getting inspiration from architecture, or a new to me park, I just love looking around and pulling inspiration from truly anything.
 
Question 4: Describe your creative process in three words.
 
Looking, regularity and looseness

 

 

My Process for Creating a Stop Motion Animation

I thought I would share with you my process for making one of my stop motion videos, particularly the first social media post I made for North York Arts.

I knew I wanted it to be an introductory post about me so what better way to illustrate that than to make mini paper versions of myself.

My original idea had paper-me floating down, holding balloons that spell out my name. Once I land, a big hand comes out of one corner of the screen, waves, and then drops down a bunch of my favourite things (books, camera, a pencil, etc.). This scares paper-me but once I see that it means no harm I burst
out laughing.

I then type up my storyboard/ shot list. Take a bunch of pictures of myself in every pose. I go through and select the photos I’m going to use and add them to a word doc, alter the sizes of the photos and then print them out.

I do not have a colour printer, so I go over to my aunt and uncles house to print all my images and what I imagined was going to be a quick step ends up taking awhile because the images were coming out streaky and faded. My uncle fixes the printer but is very insistent that I don’t throw away the streaky images and maybe I could use them in the animation. I humour him but what I’m really thinking is I’ll use them as scrap paper. But then I think of the glitch segment, and my idea starts to change a bit and I turn some paper-me’s into glitching versions of me. I cut out all the pieces, I lay them in a book with some weights on top, so the paper doesn’t curl and I leave it in there for a couple of days.

Then on filming day I take out all my paper props and start figuring out my background. I originally wanted a giant crescent moon to hang from one side (I thought it would look cool and give it a vintage-y movie set look). So, I film it this way but the sizing looks off, so I scrap it.

In the second round of filming and editing I don’t like the moment the big hand comes in and drops off all the things I like around me. To me it looks too messy and it takes too long for all the items to settle into place.

So, I scrap what I shot again, and at this moment I don’t feel great, I never love having to reshoot something, because I always feel like I should be able to get it right the first time. But after shooting and editing each time I do get a bit closer to what I want it to look like.

I take a 10-minute break, try to gather my confidence, sit back down, and start again. This time I have my items come in from each side of the screen, I work in reverse which is much easier because then I can take my time laying it all out. I add in the scrunched up blue paper balls to add in more colour and fill up the space. I also add in my disembodied head popping in to say ‘hello’ and since I like that look, in the opposite corner I add in a tiny, disembodied hand waving. Then I do a rough edit to see if I like it or if I’ll need to reshoot it for a fourth time, but finally I am pleased with it.

Then all that’s left is to find the right audio, which is me going through my mini library of sounds I have created over the years and pulling in anything that piques my interest. I watch them with the visuals to see what works. The audio that I match with the glitch is just me scrunching up some paper but if you stretch it out it turns into this very electronic tinny sound which I thought worked perfectly with the
visuals of the glitch. I also reversed the audio clip to make it sound off. I love reversing an audio clip, because it makes me feel like a professional audio engineer, I doubt they do this, but I allow myself this one fantasy.

And that was my process for my stop motion animation I made for North York Arts. If you have any other questions, you can always DM me on Instagram @laura_kz

Experience the complete stop-motion animation below:

 

TASNEEM DAIRYWALA CREATIVE RESIDENT

Ashlee Campbell – Summer/Fall 2024

NYA is thrilled to announce that our Summer/Fall 2024 Guest Artist is Ashlee Campbell. Ashlee will be curating a series of social media and blog posts over the next two months.

Ashlee Campbell is a poet and writer who spends most of her time cooking for people. A mother and foster parent of four kids aged four to sixteen, Ashlee is raising her boisterous crowd with her husband in Toronto — a city she didn’t grow up in but has adopted as her heart-home. Ashlee grew up across the globe, born to a Peruvian mama and Canadian dad in Niamey, Niger. She’s also lived in Haiti, El Salvador, Honduras, Mali, Chad, Malawi, South Africa, Germany and Canada, so far!

 

 

GET TO KNOW ASHLEE Q&A

We asked Ashlee a few questions to give you a glimpse into the creative mind behind her practice. Get to know the inspiration and vision that fuels her artistry! 

Question 2: What projects will you be focusing on during your time as a guest artist with North York Arts?

I will be working on completing the manuscript for the sequel to my children’s book, Señora Sanasana. The working title is Señora Sanasana and The Cure for a Homesick Heart and I’m very excited for what my co-author and I have drafted so far. I’ll also spend time going over my poetry collections and editing and submitting several to poetry magazines and competitions. And I’ll be doing some author “housekeeping” tasks as well, like updating my website, writing grant proposals and preparing content for author visits.   

Question 1: What is one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned through your art practice?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through my art practice is to celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. There are so many amazing artists out there and unfortunately talent doesn’t always translate to critical or commercial success. So while it’s lovely to receive awards, accolades and paychecks, they may be few and far between. As an artist you have to develop your own ways of celebrating and recognizing the steps you take towards creating things you are proud of and add beauty and value to the world. 

Question 3: In what ways has North York influenced your art practice?

I moved to North York five years ago and had the great privilege of moving to a street with wonderful neighbours, where people learn each other’s names and help each other out. I’ve always loved meeting people and creating communities, in fact my other job, besides being an author, is all about doing that. Community care in action is one of the themes of my kid’s book.

Question 4: Describe your creative process in three words.

Collaborative. Spontaneous. Slow. 

 

 

 

 

Something I learned along the way

A beautiful new notebook. A seminar with my favourite poet. A website design upgrade.
 
The list of things I want to spend money on as a writer goes on and on. And they might all be worthwhile investments. After all, I have filled many notebooks with poetry and learned so much from classes and writing retreats in the past. However, I have also wasted precious pennies on the same things when I was spending money as a replacement for simply doing the work of being a writer.
 
Let’s be honest, I can establish a writing routine just as effectively with an old notepad and a pencil as with fancy software. And instead of dropping hundreds on a course, I can listen to talks by the world’s greatest writers for free online if I take the time to find them. I can also remind myself that a website upgrade will never be a more effective marketing tool than in-person networking.
 
Something I’m finally learning as a mid-career artist is that the enticing courses and slick technologies are never going to make me better at my craft or magically boost my career. At best they will enhance existing skills I’ve developed through practice, at worst I will be disappointed by the results.
 
We do sometimes need to invest in things like classes or new materials. But I’ve learned to be honest with myself about when those things are real investments or just distractions from the sometimes tedious discipline necessary to be an artist. My new approach is to “prove” to myself that I need something before spending money on it. I realized that if I was willing to spend my time and energy first, it would help me gauge more wisely (and more honestly!) if I should also put money towards it.
 
So for example, I wanted to brush up on my grammar skills because I felt like I was being too sloppy in my drafts and it made the editing process onerous. So I researched paid online courses, which I’m sure are great. But then I found a lot of free blog posts and videos by copy editors, as well as books available at the public library. I admitted to myself that even if I pay for a class I still need to show up for it with commitment and focus for it to benefit me. Turns out I can do that with the free materials I find too. In the end I felt like I had gotten what I was looking for simply by investing my time to research quality free content and study it.
 
Another time I was trying to learn about the publishing industry through the same approach and after months of research I still felt confused and disconnected from the industry. So I invested in a membership to a children’s writers association as well as a mentoring course with an author I admired. Both opened doors for me and I made back what I spent within a year. Waiting the extra few months trying the free approach didn’t hinder my career and it helped me take advantage of the content I paid for because I better understood its value.
 
So, I’m going to fill my current journal to the very last page before I go out and buy the turquoise moleskin I’ve had my eye on.
ARLETTE NGUNG CREATIVE RESIDENT

Arlette Ngung – Spring/Summer 2023

NYA is pleased to share that our Spring/Summer 2023 Creative Resident is Arlette Ngung. Stay tuned for her series of social media and blog posts over the next two months.

Arlette Ngung is a textile artist/pattern maker inspired by tradition and sustainability. Her credentials include a degree in Fashion Design/Patternmaking from the Fashion Institute of Technology of New York, USA and a Certificate in CAD from Formamod, Paris, FRANCE.

Arlette’s focus is devoted to the preservation and reinterpretation of traditional African Textile. She was profiled in interviews with CBC Radio Canada and Selvedge Magazine UK for her vegan approach to art.

ANNA KAVEHMEHR CREATIVE RESIDENCY

Anna Kavehmehr – Fall/Winter 2022

NYA is pleased to share that our Fall/Winter 2022 Creative Resident is Anna Kavehmehr. Stay tuned for her series of social media and blog posts over the next two months.

Anna Kavehmehr is an Iranian-Canadian Illustrator with a master’s in digital media and a bachelor’s in graphic design.

Her art is largely based on internal conflicts, poems, music and literature. Telling stories through art has been her lifelong passion. She is constantly inspired by people, their struggles and relationships with one another, with nature and society.

In recent years, Anna’s work has been exhibited in Tehran, Kuala Lumpur and Toronto.

Mahsa (Jina) Amini and the Origin of the Woman, Life Freedom

I am very grateful to North York Arts for giving me this opportunity to bring awareness to what is happening in Iran and the Woman, Life, Freedom movement.

By now you have probably heard the name, Mahsa (Jina) Amini, how she became a symbol of a freedom movement in Iran, and the protests that have been ongoing since her brutal death 3 days after being in custody of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s “morality police”. You might have also heard the various chants from videos on social media or from the protests in your city.

Iranians in diaspora have made it their mission to amplify the voices of the protesters in Iran on as many platforms as we can. Since the start of the protests, the government has limited access to the internet to avoid videos or news of the protests coming out. Despite the government’s efforts, Iranians have found different ways to connect to the internet and have risked their lives to get information, photos, and videos out and get the world’s attention. Most Iranians in diaspora are getting messages from their friends and family members which is a simple ask and it is: “Don’t forget about us.” “Please continue to let the world know what is happening in Iran” Or in short: “BE OUR VOICE”.

If you have an Iranian friend or colleague, you probably are seeing them posting news and information about Iran, attend rallies, sign petitions, and ask non-Iranians to stand in solidarity with the protesters in their fight for freedom. It is because of how loud Iranians have been on social media, that we started getting media attention from major news outlets, artists, musicians, celebrities, brands, politicians, human rights organizations, and activists all over the world.

One of the most popular slogans you might have heard everyone repeating to show their support is “Woman, Life, Freedom” which has now become the battle cry of the whole movement. It is very important to highlight the history behind the slogan, its Kurdish origins, and how it mirrors protesters demands for freedom.

For context, it is important to note that Mahsa (Jina) Amini was a Kurdish Iranian woman. Kurdish people in Iran are an oppressed minority. The Kurdish slogan, Jin Jîyan Azadî (ژن، ژیان، ئازادی) was first chanted at Mahsa (Jina) Amini’s funeral in Kurdistan. The videos of her funeral went viral, and the slogan quickly became popular in both Kurdish and the Farsi translation Zan, Zendegi, Azadi (زن، زندگی. آزادی) all over Iran. The slogan encompasses everything the protesters want in 3 simple words.

Jin, Zan or Woman:
The protest was started by young Iranian women. Women in Iran have had their rights taken away and every aspect of their lives controlled by the government for the past 43 years. By starting the slogan with “Woman”, Iranians are demanding equal rights for women.

Jîyan, Zendegi or Life:
Protesters are demanding a normal life. To live life as authentically as possible in a society that offers safety and stability to its citizens.

Azadî, Azadi or Freedom:
Protesters are demanding freedom of choice in how they dress, the freedom to consume the art and media they choose, freedom to live their lives or practice the religion of their choice, freedom of expression, and in short to live as freely as possible in a society under democratic law.

Kurdish Origin of the Slogan:
Jin, Jîyan, Azadî (ژن، ژیان، ئازادی) is a popular political Kurdish slogan, which originated in Kurdish resistance movement, specifically with the Kurdish women’s movement within it. The Kurdish resistance movement was founded in response to the oppression and persecution of Kurds across the divided land of Kurdistan; in Iran, Iraq, Turkey and Syria. The slogan was popularized further and by the Kurdish leader, Abdullah Öcalan in his anti-capitalist and anti-patriarchal writings and ideologies.

The slogan marked the political activities of Kurdish women in the 2000 and was considered attractive because of its spelling, rhythm and connotational significance. It was also used among Kurdish men and women in their war against ISIS.

Woman, Life, Freedom movement is now known around the world as the first female-led revolution in the world that has demonstrated the bravery of the youth of Iran, especially the young Iranian women, fighting for their basic human rights.

Here’s some simple ways that you can show your support to the people of Iran:

Amplify Iranian voices by sharing the news about Iran on your social media platforms
Use our hashtags on your social posts: #MahsaAmini #OpIran #FreeIran #WomanLifeFreedom #مهسا_امینی #ژن_ژیان_ئازادی #زن_زندگی_آزادی
Write to your representatives and demand they take meaningful action to support protesters in Iran.
Attend a protest near you
Art is a great tool to raise awareness. If you are an artist or are simply inspired by the movement, create art, design posters, write poems, create videos and animations, or simply use your voice to create positive change.

The Significance of Protest Art in Iran

If you are on social media or have attended protests in person, you might have seen the amount of art that is being produced in support of the protests in Iran. You might be wondering why creating art is so significant in the fight for a free Iran.

For context, It is important to know that Iran has a rich history of art, poetry and music that dates back thousands of years. For the past 43 years, all forms of art have been policed, censored, repressed or blocked by the Islamic Republic government. Artists living in Iran cannot freely express themselves through art or any other means. You will find a lot of symbolism, metaphors, or other clever tools artists utilize to express what is forbidden under the Islamic Republic rules and regulations. Iranian artists living outside of Iran who create political art or feely criticize the regime, risk going to prison or worse if they ever decide to go back to Iran. 

In a society where freedom of choice and freedom of expression is against the rules, to freely create art and speak your mind becomes a form of protest. This is why protest art has become so important for Iranians.

Now what is protest art? Protest art or Activist art is the creative works produced by artists and activists that reflect social movements or bring awareness to a political issue. It is a traditional means of communication for citizens, as well as protesting totalitarian regimes where freedom of expression can be seen as a form of civil disobedience. Protest art comes in many forms and mediums such as: illustration, animation, video art, music, anthems, poems, performance art, installation and more. 

Many Iranian artists, myself included, feel that it is our responsibility to use our voice, platform and skills to show solidarity with the protesters, help amplify their voices through art and hopefully bring positive change to the movement. 

Over the past 3 months, a large number of non-Iranian artists and musicians have also joined in on creating protest art in support of the protesters which has brought worldwide attention to the protests. 

If you are an artist who is inspired by the Iranians’ fight for freedom, please use your voice and skills to amplify the Iranian voices. Create portraits, videos, posters, music or any other way that feels authentic to you, to raise your voice in support of the protesters in Iran. 

Iranian Protesters at Risk of Execution

Since the beginning of the protests in Iran in September 2022, more than 500 protesters have been killed and more than 10,000 protesters have been arrested.  Yet the protesters are still fighting for freedom, whether on the streets all over Iran or by various acts of civil disobedience. 

In an attempt to get the protests under control and inspire fear, the Islamic Republic has charged many innocent protesters with “Moharebeh” which translates to “Waging war against God”. A crime that is punishable by death in Iran. 

At least 4 protesters (Mohesen Shekari (23), Majidreza Rahnavard (23), Mohammad Mehdi Karami (22) and Mohammad Hosseini (39)) have been executed after giving false confessions under extreme physical and psychological pressure. At least another 41 protesters have received death sentences and are at risk of execution. 

False confessions in Iran are a widely reported phenomenon, especially amongst the political prisoners. These confessions are often used as evidence in sham trials, resulting in expedited convictions.

Physical and psychological torture, as well as threats against the prisoner and their family or loved ones are among the methods wherein these false confessions are extracted. It’s also important to note that Iran’s legal system lacks many of the protections and due process that are guaranteed in democratic countries. 

Due to the limitations on the Internet in Iran and lack of freedom of speech, Iranians in diaspora have started an online campaign to raise awareness on the executions in Iran, and get the support of the international community in hopes of getting the death sentences overturned. 

If you would like to join the campaign: 

  1. Grab a pen and paper and write #StopExecutionsinIran 
  2. Take a photo of or with the sign 
  3. Post it. Hashtag it! 

Or simply share a post or protest art and use the hashtag #StopExecutionsinIran

You might think posting on social media and hashtags don’t help in any way. For better or worse, we live in an extremely online world where trending hashtags and social media campaigns have an incredible effect in raising awareness on a topic and in turn will have news media reporting more on the said topic. 

This is how Iranians in Iran and all over the world brought attention to the death of #MahsaAmini and the #WomanLifeFreedom movement, by using the hashtags to educate, shed a light on what was happening in real-time and demand attention from the international community. 

By getting the hashtags trending, we got the attention of the news media, brands, politicians, celebrities and people around the world which started a larger conversation regarding policies against the Islamic Republic and limiting their power to suppress their own people. 

This is what we are hoping to achieve with the #StopExecutionsinIran and we hope that you will join us in raising your voice and supporting the people who are so bravely fighting for freedom.  

How You Can Support the Protesters in Iran

One of the most beautiful things I have experienced since the start of the protests in Iran, is the solidarity my non-Iranian friends have shown from the beginning of the woman, life, freedom movement. It is absolutely wonderful to witness so many people supporting, empathizing and genuinely wanting to help Iranian protesters in their fight for freedom. 

I have been asked multiple times and have seen countless comments all over social media of non-Iranians asking: “How can we help?”, and so I wanted to share some of the ways that you can help below:

  1. Stay engaged and share the news about Iran
  2. Write to your representatives and ask them to support Iranian protesters 
  3. Sign petitions in support of the Iranian protesters
  4. Attend protests in your area 
  5. Help Iranians overcoming internet blackouts and filtering

At this link, you will find a comprehensive list of resources and action items, such as how to help protesters with the internet blackouts and filtering, that is updated on a regular basis. 

If you would like to stay up-to-date on the Iran news, information and real-time developments, here are some accounts you can follow on Instagram: 

 

Thank you again to North York Arts for giving me this opportunity to amplify the voices of the protesters in Iran.

PATRICK WALTERS CREATIVE RESIDENT

Patrick Walters – Spring 2022

NYA is so excited to share that our Spring 2022 Creative Resident is Patrick Walters. Stay tuned for his series of social media and blog posts over the next two months.

Patrick Walters is a spoken word artist/public speaker and arts educator who has spent over six years professionally using poetry to place emphasis on mental wellness and deconstructing the systems which negatively affect us – a simple message, but one of paramount importance in today’s society. Through the execution of workshops and showcases, this message is passed on to the hearts and minds of his growing audience.

How to be a professional artist who creates great art

There is no singular “Correct” way to create great art or be a professional artist. Regardless of your artistic discipline, what works for one artist, may not necessarily work for the other and therefore the ideas and “advice” that I will be sharing in this column, will be subjective, based on my (6+ years of ) professional experience and prefaced with many “I” statements. HAVING SAID THAT, “I” do believe that these ideas and practices can be applied and moulded to many artistic disciplines in ways that will achieve results and success. So let’s get into it! 

 

Habitual Creative Time vs Genuine Inspiration 

I think as we begin this conversation, it is important to note that the very nature of being a “Professional” artist is somewhat antithetical to the idea of creating amazing art. How can you continuously create the best art of your life with a deadline and a budget and oftentimes confounding stipulations put on you by someone who may not necessarily understand your artwork or artistic practice? For me, this is a question I often ask myself. The conclusion I’ve come to is this; Find the balance between creating structured time in your day for intentional and consistent creative time while also nurturing and then capitalising on moments of genuine inspiration. The reality of the situation I find myself in, is that if I just sit around and do nothing until I feel a moment of genuine inspiration, I may create beautiful and masterful art over time, but I will never be able to earn a living, let alone achieve financial and career success for myself. While I often find myself raging against this harsh reality, I have also been fortunate enough to see the benefits of having structured work and creative time in my career. In addition to that, I also truly believe that my best work comes from moments of pure inspiration where I am able to set everything else aside, and become completely enveloped in the process of doing what I was put on this earth to do; my art. I would never want to lose that. So the full picture for me is to schedule enough time in my day to complete the “must-do” art (Social media engagements, Grant proposals, emails, workshops, speaking or writing engagements, commissions etc) , while still providing room for my mind to wonder and stumble into moments of genuine inspiration and creativity (creating new poetry and music).

But, how?

 Is It the Habit of Creation or Creating Good Habits?

There was never a specific point in time where I thought to myself, “Boom! Now I got it all figured out”. In fact I think many professional artists will tell you that there is NEVER a point where you have it all figured out because the balance of what is required from you is always changing from month to month and year to year. Some weeks I have all the work in the world lined up and I have to set aside much more structured time for myself because “Money affi mek!” In those moments I will naturally be more focused on worldly ideas of money, deadlines and networks and be less open to a moment where the universe will speak to you in such a way that you experience a brilliant idea for an artwork or have the strong desire to create something. Trust me, that is okay! I create a schedule for all my “Must dos” and capitalise on that because I am trying to understand that I am earning money and resources, in order to have more time and money to finance my truly artistic endeavours. Some other weeks, I may find myself with more time and space to create and it is equally important to seize those moments to the fullest because I understand that these moments are fleeting and I was the 1-in-7,000,000,000 that the Universe chose to put that artwork out to the world. In these times, I will naturally find it more difficult to cross off the “must dos” and they may oftentimes feel like even more of a chore than they already can sometimes feel like for me. Trust me, that is okay!
Ideally, in my week, I will be able to balance between the two ideas and that is actually quite a large metric by which I define “Success” for myself as a professional artist. My modus operandi is this: I want to be in the habit of being able to seamlessly switch between completing my “must do” tasks and seizing on random moments of inspiration in my day to day. If I have a good idea or a beautiful line pops into my head, I WRITE IT DOWN. I cannot tell you the amount of times I have gone back into my Google doc of ideas and found UNCUT DIAMONDS in the form of an idea that I can turn into a bar, a turn of phrase, a whole poem or even an entire project. None of those would have been available if I didn’t write it down at the time, knowing that I would return to it after my “must dos” were completed. You don’t get to decide when a moment of inspiration or creation will hit you, but you can do everything in your power to take full advantage when it does and also cultivate healthy conditions for it to occur. 

IN THE END 

In the end, experience and discipline will be your best teachers. You cannot create great art or be a professional artist without getting into the habit of being comfortable working on deadlines, within budgets and inside stipulations of your contracted employer. However, this does not mean that you forgo moments of genuine inspiration because you need that to feel complete and to create truly stunning pieces of art. Balancing both is the ever changing mission, and it is my privilege and my responsibility to execute that mission, to the best of my ability, on a day to day basis. This column has only scratched the surface of the iceberg in terms of this topic but I would be happy to go even more in depth on examples and personal anecdotes to give more context in the future. Thank you for reading and all the best in your mission. 

 

Photograph of Patrick WaltersGraphic Illustration of a traditional scale

How to be a professional artist who creates great art - audio

Listen to the audio of Patrick’s blog post:

 

 

Article on independent album distribution

The art of producing and distributing an album has changed drastically in the past 20 years. Gone are the days of ‘Bad Boy’ street teams and CDs for $10 being sold out the back of a cadillac. Nowadays, almost everything about the product of music is digital and ownership of the actual music is very loosely defined. So in this new day and age, the question of how to put out an album as an independent artist is one which is both easier and more complicated at the same time. In this article, I will break down the ways in which it is both and explain to you how I have done it (twice now) for myself. 

Firstly, I think there is something very important that I must discuss before I delve any deeper into this topic. That is the fact that Albums and music in general is no longer the end product of the chain of production. Up to about 2010, album sales were one of the best and most tangible ways for artists to make money. Even if you only sold a few thousand units at $10 each, that would be enough to pay everyone who helped make the album and still have a decent profit for yourself. Nowadays however, an album is merely a marketing tool, made in order to sell the actual product which is the artist themselves. Due to the advent of streaming and technology companies becoming the “middle men” between the artist and the listener, the amount that any artist can make off the purchase of an album is literally cents on the dollar. To be precise, for most streaming companies, 1 stream equals $0.005 to the artist themselves. That means that even 1,000,000 streams is a mere $5,000 to the artists who can achieve that and most artists do not average anywhere near that number of streams, even for their whole albums. 

The question then becomes, ”Why make an album if there’s no direct money to be made?” The answer to this question is twofold. Firstly, if you are an independent artist, like myself, putting out an album is as simple as recording it, and signing up with one of the many distribution companies that you can pay to put your music on all streaming platforms. You don’t need to be signed to a label, you don’t need to be able to print CDs and you definitely don’t need to be super famous or super rich (although recording in studio quality can sometimes start to add up in cost). This option makes it easier than ever to put out an album and you are responsible for all your own marketing and promotion. This means that with the right information and a minimal budget, you can put your album out to the world and receive recognition that can spur your career forward and put you on the map for bigger and better opportunities down the line. 

The second reason that more established artists still make albums is as I mentioned before; albums are the best promotion for the other products that major artists actually sell. Behind every major artist, is a product selling machine that is designed to be constantly churning out things for their audience to purchase, whether that be Shirts, pins, tickets to a show, commemorative memorabilia and in many high value cases exclusive access to the artists themselves. These are the things that now exist at the end of the production chain. Albums are now used to market everything else that an artist wants to sell their audience, rather than being the product itself. 

As you can see there are still many good reasons to make an album, even as an independent artist. My advice to you as someone who has produced and distributed two albums so far is this;

  1. Find a good producer who you can work with that won’t charge you an arm and a leg for studio time. 
  2. Follow through! Even if it takes a year or two, (My first album took two and a half years from start to finish) still follow through and put it out. 
  3. Research the distribution company that works best for your budget and your goals. Companies like Distrokid and Tunecore are some of the ones I have used in the past and they have served me well. 

Even if you are only able to put out an EP or an album with a minimum amount of songs, you won’t regret it!

If you are someone who is not an artist and merely interested in this area, I hope I have been able to feed your curiosity and show how artists put out albums. If you are an artist yourself, I hope this information serves as a guide on your way to success and also encourages you to do it!

Article on independent album distribution - audio

TASNEEM DAIRYWALA CREATIVE RESIDENT

Tasneem Dairywala – Winter 2022

NYA is thrilled to announce that our Winter 2022 Creative Resident is Tasneem Dairywala. Tasneem will be curating a series of social media and blog posts over the next two months.

Tasneem believes that art can illuminate all the nitty-gritty corners of the expected, the ordinary, and the sane. Creating art empowers her to change the unease from facing any crisis into the pleasure of unraveling it. She loves to create worlds full of magic and warmth, focusing on themes of resilience, empathy, and love.

Outside of her personal art practice, Tasneem works as the Executive Director of Art Ignite. and brings inclusive visual arts programs to the Flemingdon Park neighbourhood. Her workshops are designed to connect people from disparate backgrounds by using the arts as a tool for knowledge and understanding.

 

Building a Creative Practice

 

Building a Creative Practice

By Expecting the Unexpected

 

We’re all born artists, but for most of us, creativity gets buried under the pressure of heavy responsibilities, busy schedules, and rigid social structures. For those of us who are able to make room for our creativity, we still often manage to stifle it through our own expectations. So here are some dos and don’ts to build and sustain a creative practice based on my own experience! 

 

DO

Do expect your creativity to reward you, to create an additional layer of meaning in every part of your life. A tearful hug from an audience member, a homemade cake from a participant, a balloon of happiness expanding within your heart… These are the unexpected gifts your creativity will sprinkle upon you.

 

DON’T

Don’t expect your creativity to reward you with money and fame. These goals are just a reflection of what society considers ‘successful’. If these are your end goals, there are easier ways to get to them. Our creations sew together the torn fragments of the world. What we create is valuable, even if it doesn’t meet the standard definition of success.

 

DO

Do expect your creativity to stun and surprise you. Bring down ‘art’ from its pedestal so your creativity can have free reign. Trust in the unknown. Encourage yourself. Your creativity will bloom when you play, experiment and let loose!

 

DON’T

Don’t expect your creativity to bring you perfection. We are imperfect beings living in an imperfect world. We can only make imperfect things. Be careful of the narrative you tell yourself.  If you start creating to achieve perfection instead of joy, your creativity will go into hiding, quietly withdrawing until the pressure lifts off.

 

DO

Do expect your creativity to want excitement and change. Go to shows, take classes, read books. Reach out to other artists and art organisations, such as NYA! Taking the first step is scary but necessary. Seek knowledge. Build connections.

 

DON’T

Don’t expect creativity to always be around. Creativity doesn’t like being alone all the time, and it certainly doesn’t like being bored. Pretty much anything other than sitting at home and stewing about its absence will bring it back to you.

 

And that’s all I’ve got! Creativity is elusive and slippery. Expect too much, and it’ll flee. Let it breathe, and it’ll seep through the cracks of the ordinary in the most wonderful ways. I wish you the best of luck!

Tasneem Dairywala is an Artist, Writer and Illustrator. To read more of her writing, sign up for her newsletter at www.tasneemdairywala.com

Attending Art School

Based on: Girl, By Jamaica Kincaid

Wash your brushes immediately and put them to dry hanging upside down; Wash the acrylic ones separately and never mix them with oils; don’t leave your paintings to dry in the hot sun; they’ll cook and crack; wash your palettes as soon as you’re done using them; when buying yourself an apron, be sure that you don’t spend too much money on it, because that way you won’t feel guilty when you spill wax and paint all over; prime your canvases overnight before you paint on them; always eat your food before you start painting; don’t want toxics inside there; don’t sing while you work; don’t socialize so much; don’t eat your meals outside – you’re wasting good money; this is how to build a stretcher; this is how to stretch a canvas on the stretcher you have just built; this is how to use an easel when you’re painting something too large; this is how you smile to a professor you don’t like too much; this is how you smile to a professor you don’t like at all; this is how you smile to a professor you like too much; this is how to sculpt a pot; this is how to sculpt a face; this is how to sculpt a body; this is how you set a work on display; be sure to wash every day; the smell of your paint is better than the smell of your sweat; don’t paint too many flowers – they can make your work boring; don’t throw stones to hear the pattern of sound they make; you waste too much time daydreaming; this is how to knead red clay; this is how to knead white clay; this is how to start up a kiln; this is how to get the maximum amount of work done in the minimum amount of time; this is how to save a painting before it becomes an inconceivable mess; this is how to burn old rags; and that way your room won’t look dirtier than it is already; this is how to control your work; and this is how your grades control you; this is how to love what you do; and if this doesn’t work there are other ways, and if they don’t work, don’t feel too bad about giving up; this is how to make old supplies last; this is how to squeeze out each thumbnail for more ideas and mistakes to make sure your painting turns out looking perfect; but what if I like them imperfect?; you mean to say that after all this, you are going to be the kind of artist who thinks every mark you make is a masterpiece?

Building a Creative Career

An Interview with Tasneem Dairywala

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a visual artist and an art educator. I run a non-profit called Art Ignite and we do lots of fun art programs in Flemingdon Park. I’m also on my way to publishing my first children’s book, ‘How to Show Love’ after which, I will be able to change my status from writer to author!

 

What would you say are the most important parts of building a creative career?

  • Continuous learning:
    • By learning, I don’t mean acquiring an expensive degree or only learning about art-specific topics. Learn about whatever makes you curious, because it’s crucial to creative growth. Here are some free or low-cost education platforms that I’ve found very useful:
      • Gale Institute
      • TDSB classes for adults
      • Coursera
      • City of Toronto: Parks, Forestry and Recreation
      • Toronto Public Library
  • Building connections:
    • Post-COVID, it would be wonderful to start attending art events again and building in-person connections. But in the meantime, there are other ways to remain connected: 
      • Ask every person you know if they know someone doing the same things as you. I have found this to be the absolute best way to accumulate knowledge and find collaborators.
      • Join newsletters. Almost all organizations send them out, and they’re full of opportunities.
      • Look at Toronto, Ontario and Canada Art Council’s websites. Search for grants related to the fields you’re interested in, look at who was funded by these grants in the past year, and reach out to them. This is how I came across NYA. They gave me the volunteer experience and mentorship needed to start my own business, and it all started with an email!
  • Being brave:
    • You’ve already taken the first steps in this journey. Don’t be afraid to move forward. You’re good enough to get grants. You’re good enough to run projects. You’re good enough to do whatever you desire!

 

What are some of the steps you take to apply for grants?

  1. Attend grant writing workshops by funders.
  2. Include keywords from the grant description and evaluation metrics in my application.
  3. Talk to the grant officer before applying.
  4. Plan the budget before the project so I know what’s achievable.
  5. Make sure the support material is high quality. 
    1. If they’re asking for reference letters, make sure the letter is signed, has a header, the correct date, and answers their questions. 
    2. If they’re asking for art work, make sure it’s professionally documented.
  6. Break up long questions into smaller sections. This helps to ensure that the entire question has been answered and no details have been left out. 
  7. Ask people to proofread. Most people want to help and will say yes!
  8. Start and submit the applications as early as possible to avoid getting stressed.
  9. Ask the grant officer for feedback if the application is unsuccessful.
  10. Pay someone to write the grant if the application is repeatedly unsuccessful. It’s a great learning experience and worth it, especially if the grant writer works on commission.

 

Are there any grants that are good for emerging artists?

  1. Art Reach is a great one if you’re under 30. 
  2. Cultural Hotspot is also fantastic, but you have to partner with an organization.
  3. Toronto Arts Council and Ontario Arts Council applications are not too hard, but each program has a different eligibility criteria. Make sure you meet it before starting the application.
  4. Inspirit workshop is also great if you have a project idea specific to their mission.
  5. Microgrants are good starters, but they pop up randomly. Keep an eye on your newsletters!

 

Is there anything else you would want to tell an emerging artist?

The art world is like a buffet. You want to keep adding projects to your plate even after it’s full. But it’s not sustainable. It’s a long journey so take care of yourself and your mental health. There will always be more opportunities.

 

The Creative Residencies are part of our Grow North Program, an initiative proudly supported by Northcrest Developments.

With Love, North York

With Love, North York

With Love, North York

Empty heading

Six Community Centres. Six Artists. Lots of Love.

 

With Love, North York is a community art project produced by North York Arts.

Throughout Winter 2022 and Spring 2023, six new visual arts pieces were created across six community centres in North York, by local North York-based artists.

Artists engaged with their respective community centres to create an artwork that channels the values, members, and essence of each community. This project was designed to acknowledge the land we are privileged to live, work, and create on, as well as to celebrate 100 years of the incorporation of the Township of North York. North York Arts is lucky to serve and honour this community through public art.

We acknowledge the millenia-long history of these lands, its peoples and its history. We are honoured to foster arts and culture on the traditional lands of the Huron-Wendat, the Seneca, Haudenosaunee, and the Mississaugas of the Credit River, or what is known today by many as North York.

Community Builders
Bryan Taguba
Acrylic Paint on Stretch Canvas

Roding Community Centre
600 Roding St – M3M 2A5
York Centre, Ward 6

About Community Builders

The piece aims to portray the interconnectedness of our cultures, our past, and our current realities through the usage of communication lines borrowed from the Woodland Style of Native Canadian Art. As part of a diverse and multicultural community largely being made up of working class families and people, we have a collective role in creating and sustaining a culture of care, inclusivity, decolonization and empowerment. ‘Community Builders’ is inspired by everyday working people who serve our communities, the promise of the future generation and the idea that together we can shape a future that is truly equitable and cognizant of our wants and needs.
– Bryan Taguba

Windows of Opportunity
Marg Cresswell – Murals by Marg
Acrylic Paint on Bending Plywood

North Toronto Memorial Community Centre
200 Eglinton Ave West – M4R 1A7
Eglinton Lawrence, Ward 8

About Windows of Opportunity

The illusion of trompe l’oeil offers the chance of discovery, to perceive all the details inside and escaping the illusion in my murals. I aim not to deceive, but to reveal the illusion. This meeting place, between the real thing and the painted thing, brings the viewer to the edge of illusionism, only to assert that the reality is the paint.

Although the deception may appear only momentarily, it is an instant of being deceived. And once the illusion has dissolved, what remains will be the painting all on its own and draw in the viewer to spend time exploring all the details and visual delights each mural has to offer.
– Marg Cresswell

Community Love
Yasaman Mehrsa
Digital Artwork printed on Vinyl Banner

Jenner Jean-Marie Community Centre
48 Thorncliffe Park Drive – M4H1J7
Don Valley West, Ward 15

About Community Love

Inspired by the theme of community, this vibrant mural showcases love, support, and a sense of belonging between the community members, the neighbourhood, and the Jenner Jean-Marie Community Centre. People of all gender, ages, and backgrounds come together, share their interests, and interact with others. This mural is a representation of the people of a community that live, work, study, play, and grow together.
-Yasaman Mehrsa

Dreamers
Melisa Sofi
Digital Artwork printed on Vinyl Banner

Dennis R Timbrell Resource and Community Centre
29 St Dennis Dr – M3C 3J3
Don Valley East, Ward 16

About Dreamers

This portraits series showcases a group of kids with diverse interests and styles.They all carry birds with them that can be interpreted as companions, symbolic of those who have found a home among the generosity of others.
– Melisa Sofi

Window into Oriole
Serene Chan – Serene Illustrations
Digital Artwork printed on Vinyl Banner

Oriole Community Centre
2975 Don Mills Road – M2J 3B7
Don Valley North, Ward 17

About Window into Oriole

This painting depicts a brick wall with 4 arches acting as windows looking into some of the community’s favorite activities. Each image showcases a different scenery that slightly reaches outside of the arch frame, portraying the activity almost coming to life. All four windows are connected with a white banner written with words that the community members used to describe the Oriole community centre: Diversity, Creativity, Teamwork, Community, Passion, and Family. This image ties together the heart of what Oriole represents: a community that prioritizes physical and creative activities in a family friendly environment.

– Serene Chan

Community Vibe
Laura Yang
Digital Artwork printed on Vinyl Banner

Edithvale Community Centre
131 Finch Ave W – M2N 2H8
Willowdale, Ward 18

About Community Vibe

This mural design is a colorful and lively representation of the diverse cultures and ages that make up our community. It celebrates the different ethnic groups and the wide range of activities that take place within the center, including pottery, music, basketball, snooker, etc. This design conveys the passion and vibrancy of the community, showcasing the many ways people come together to create a home for everyone. Overall, the mural will be a testament to the power of community and how it can help people flourish and thrive.
-Laura Yang

Meet the Artists

Bryan Taguba

York Centre - Roding Community Centre

Meet Bryan

Bryan Taguba is a painter, photographer, community organizer and activist with the Magkaisa Centre. He was born in the Philippines and came to Canada at age 9. His mother worked as a caregiver in Toronto. He works as an artist facilitator and teacher in various programs for “at-risk” youth in Toronto. He has worked on several city funded mural projects across Ontario and has led facilitation and advising for Magkaisa Centre’s “Maleta Stories” Arts and Culture Project, exhibited in 2010, 2012 and 2015. Inspired by the pedagogical framework outlined by Paolo Freire that centres the perspectives of everyday working people, Bryan strives to use the visual arts as a tool for consciousness building, community building, and social transformation.

Laura Yang

Willowdale - Edithvale Community Centre

Meet Laura

Laura is a Chinese-Canadian illustrator and designer who loves to use colorful aesthetics and compelling storytelling to convey messages and ideas. Her work explores human emotions, feminist values, and cultural diversity, with the hope of establishing personal connections with audiences and fostering community building. As a multidisciplinary artist, she is passionate about using dynamic figures and creative forms to cherish all the meaningful things and moments in her life.

Margaret Cresswell

Eglinton Lawrence - North Toronto Memorial Community Centre

Meet Margaret

Marg is an award-winning muralist who spent her final year of study in Florence, Italy and graduated from the Ontario College of Art, in 1994. Over 20 years ago she began working as a muralist and, after requests for commissions, she opened her own studio, Murals By Marg, in 2001. In 2007, Marg was invited to exhibit her large-scale paintings at the Biennale Internazionale Dell’Arte Contempranea in Florence, Italy. Since 2015, she has painted over three dozen public art murals in the City of Toronto. In 2017, she was awarded a Certificate of Recognition from the House of Commons for her mural in Richmond Hill as part of Canada’s 150th Anniversary. Marg continues to exhibit her paintings and has works in private and public collections in Canada, the USA and France.

Melisa Sofi

Don Valley East - Dennis R Timbrell Resource and Community Centre

Meet Melisa

Melisa Sofi is an Albanian-Canadian cross disciplinary artist based in North York. She is a recent Illustration graduate from OCAD University. Inspired by themes of identity, interpersonal relationships and the creative process, her work often blurs the line between narrative and documentary.

Yasaman Mehrsa

Don Valley West - Jenner Jean-Marie Community Centre

Meet Yasaman

Yasaman Mehrsa is a Toronto-based visual artist. Born and raised in Tehran/Iran, she got exposed to art from a young age. She completed her studies with a Bachelor of Visual Communication in Iran and later achieved Bachelor with honours in Visual Arts from Brock University in St. Catharines/Canada. Yasaman uses both digital and traditional mediums.

Yasaman’s work is often representative of awareness of the human-nature relationship. She believes that nature is both all around us and deep within us. Inspiring by nature, she creates storytelling arts and expresses different emotions in each of them to inspire her audiences to discover their imagination, feeling, and interaction with the natural environment.

Serene Chan

Don Valley North - Oriole Community Centre

Meet Serene

I am a Chinese-Canadian creative and an expert daydreamer, who utilizes my passion in storytelling to produce digital and traditional imagery that provokes child-like wonder and captures nostalgia. My work draws on my interest in mental health, East Asian history and mythology, and all things fantasy. I strive to create awareness in the beauty of Asian cultures and otherwise marginalized communities. Alongside my art, my versatile background includes my academic education in business and years of entrepreneurial experience exemplified in three of my start-up businesses. When I’m not painting, you can find me working with my hands- sewing, making resin crafts, and thrift flipping.

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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

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North York Arts
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