Art in Hard Times invited 75 people, 10 local artist facilitators, and 8 organizations to generate a sense of community and decrease isolation through artistic audio/visual recordings, which comprise a digital mural. In June 2020, as we were looking for ways to hold space for creative expression and community-building during the COVID-19 pandemic, Art in Hard Times aimed to amplify the voices of those who identify as newcomers, LGBTQ21+, Black, Indigenous, people of color, street engaged, adults with developmental exceptionalities, and/or youth struggling with mental health and addictions. During a time of isolation, the project offered an opportunity to connect with other Guelph locals to feel emotions, reflect on justice and life purpose, learn better ways of being, play, engage in art making, and think critically about the layered happenings during this time. Stories varied from mass protesting, racial discrimination, and white supremacy to cultural heritage, connectivity, and nature.  

 

For HomeWebsite, click HERE

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Facilitators: Lori Guest, Fan-Ling Suen, Kavya Yoganathan, Shera Mekhail, Michelle Miranda, Charity Cruz, Abby Nowakowski, Ahmri Vandeborne, Alisa McRonald, Michelle Peek. 

Guest Artist Witness: Joni NehRita

Social Artist Lead & Facilitator: Melanie Schambach

Partner Organization: Art Not Shame, Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition

Funders: Canadian Red Cross, The Guelph Community Foundation, Centre for Community Engaged Narrative Arts, Canadian Mental Health Association, United Way, The Guelph Community Foundation, Guelph Community Response Fund