The exhibit will feature a neighbourhood diorama and community quilt created by more than 25 young artists ages 4-15 and be on display at City Hall from January 4th – 9th 2015.
The Up & Rooted Art Exhibit is the culmination of workshops with residents of Villaways, a Toronto Community Housing neighbourhood that is scheduled to be torn down and rebuilt as part of a revitalization project in the coming years. The young residents worked with artists Virginia Tran and Douglas Hurst on visual arts projects that explored the themes of family, home and community. The result is an artistic recreation of what they love about their neighbourhood and a vision for what they would like their community to become.
 “It was really special because everybody in the neighbourhood helped out†says 12-year old artist Rebekah about the process. “It was really fun because everyone had their own part and we were all sharing. It’s amazing!â€
13-year old Ali remarked “We can change Villaways I guess. It’s easy to change if you try."
"This diorama speaks to the creativity that is embedded in this community. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to realize the community's potential over the next several years" – Carleen Robinson, Program Manager
For the majority of the youth this will be the first time they have ever been to City Hall. They will take this opportunity to give their city councillor, Shelley Carroll, a tour of their diorama and, in exchange, Councillor Carroll will give these young citizens a tour of City Hall. We hope you're able to make it out to see this great exhibit while it's on but if not stay tuned to our upcoming newsletters for photos of this great experience and don't forget to keep in touch over social media for updates on all Art Starts programs and events by clicking the links below!
The Up & Rooted program is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
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