Akin Collective

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Photo from Toronto School of Art

Call for Applications: Toronto School of Art →

Toronto School of Art
June 14, 2018 by Akin Collective in Call for Submissions

For over 40 years, Toronto School of Art has established itself as one of the most distinguished alternative arts schools in the city. While their history alone sets them apart, it’s their ideology that truly defines TSA. TSA believes in taking an organic approach to the arts. This translates into a hands-on education model that focuses on studio-based learning. TSA offers students the opportunity to work with practicing artists in a close, one-on-one environment. What this entails is a rigorous study of the arts through a challenging, tactile application of every skill set learned.

For many years, Toronto School of Art (TSA) has been an active community partner with Akin, fostering collaboration and support on both ends. A number of current Akin members are also staff members and instructors at TSA and you could be too!

 

Available Positions at TSA:

 

Office Manager

Position Type/Hours: part-time position, 4 days per week (30 hours), $20.00/hour.

Position Description:

The Office Manager supports Toronto School of Art’s operations and is responsible for ensuring and maintaining efficient, effective, and resourceful office systems and services.  This position also supports the administration of the front desk and provides skilled and friendly communication to customers/students and faculty. Reporting to the Managing Director, the Office Manager works closely with TSA staff, faculty members, student volunteers, and the Board of Governors (BOG).

Posting closes at 5pm, Friday, June 15, 2018.

To Apply: Please send a resume and cover letter in a single PDF with applicant name and job title as the subject to:  Renée Castonguay, Managing Director, Toronto School of Art, info@tsa-art.com.

 

Youth Art Education Assistant (Summer Works)

Position Duration: June 25 to August 17th 2018.

30 hours/week (8 weeks)

Wage: $14/hour

Position Description:

The Youth Art Education Assistant helps with the daily operations and coordination of Toronto School of Art’s summer youth art camps and intensives for students ages 11-17.

This position is funded by Canada Summer Jobs, and applicants must meet the following CSJ requirements:

  • Between the age of 18-30;

  • A full-time post-secondary student during the preceding academic year;

  • Returning to full-time studies at a College/University in the Fall (preferably in visual arts and/or art education).

Submission deadline: 5pm, Tuesday, June 19, 2018.

 

Community Events Assistant (Summer Works)

Position Duration: June 25 to August 17th 2018.

30 hours/week (8 weeks)

Wage: $14/hour

Position Description:

The Community Events Assistant helps coordinate TSA’s presence at various community festivals and events, and facilitates special projects throughout the summer.

This position is funded by Canada Summer Jobs, and applicants must meet the following CSJ requirements:

  • Between the age of 18-30;

  • A full-time post-secondary student during the preceding academic year;

  • Returning to full-time studies at a College/University in the Fall (preferably in visual arts and/or art education).

Submission deadline: 5pm, Tuesday, June 19, 2018.

To Apply for Summer Works positions: Please send a resume and cover letter in a single PDF with applicant name and job title as the subject to:  Renée Castonguay, Managing Director, Toronto School of Art, info@tsa-art.com.

click here for more details
June 14, 2018 /Akin Collective
Job posting, job opportunities, summer works, toronto school of art, art, school
Call for Submissions

Photo via NUIT ROSE

New Works by Akin Member, Kyle Yip, at NUIT ROSE Festival →

Artscape Youngplace
June 13, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event, Exhibitions, Member News

NUIT ROSE is back for its fifth annual festival of queer art and performance this week. Taking the theme Unbound, this year’s festival features art that crosses borders, both real and imagined. The 2018 festival takes place over five nights in June, with programming across Toronto neighbourhoods, including West Queen West, University & College, and the Church-Wellesley Village.

This year's festival features the work of Akin Ossington member, Kyle Yip, among many other creatives. Kyle Yip also known as Discrete, is a Toronto based multimedia artist, DJ, producer and label owner of Savvy Records. He is known not only for his Juno Award Nominated full-length album, but also his remixes for international artists such as Brabe, Society of Silence and many more.

Find his work this week at the following NUIT ROSE events:

NUIT ROSE - Opening Night & Group Exhibition

Wednesday, June 13th, 7:00 – 10:00 pm

NUIT ROSE x Tapette Pop-up Art Party

Thursday, June 14th, 10:00 pm - 2:00 am

Super Wonder Gallery

Friday, June 15th, 1:00 pm - 2:00 am

Click to learn more
June 13, 2018 /Akin Collective
nuit rose, art festival, art exhbition, Artscape, dj
Event, Exhibitions, Member News

Photo by Tiffany Zhan for Toronto Outdoor Art Fair

Volunteer at the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair →

Nathan Phillips Square
June 13, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event

The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (TOAF) is Canada's largest, longest running juried contemporary outdoor art fair. Founded in 1961, Toronto Outdoor Art Fair exists to nurture artistic excellence and artists’ entrepreneurial spirit, and to showcase contemporary art to the general public. This free event showcases work by over 320 contemporary visual artists and makers, ranging from painting, photography, and mixed media to jewellery and ceramics, attracting over 100,000 visitors each year to Nathan Phillips Square.

The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair is only made possible by the amazing volunteers. Each year over 150 volunteers lend their hands, time and expertise to make this event happen. If you are passionate about art or volunteering please join volunteer this July. Types of roles:

  • Fair Volunteer Be the face of the festival, includes providing information to audiences, fundraising, tour leading
  • Logistics Help out in production, mark up the square, be in the dolly crew helping artists set up, keep everything running smoothly!
  • Artist Liaison Connect with our artists, help register them and assist with their needs throughout the day!
  • Office assistance Pre-fair assistance preparing items for the fair, plus postering and postcard distribution.

By volunteering for the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair, you will not only be supporting the arts, and meeting amazing people but you will also be creating access and helping shape the Toronto arts community. You will be provided with comprehensive training, a TOAF t-shirt and volunteer appreciation events. Without you this event would not be possible. We hope you’ll also have fun and gain some amazing experience!

Any questions don’t hesitate to contact Rosanna at volunteer@torontooutdoor.art

Apply here
June 13, 2018 /Akin Collective
Volunteer, Volunteering, toronto outdoor art exhibition, Art Fair
Event

Sign Up For Free Art Talks! →

Nathan Phillips Square
June 13, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event

The 57th edition of Toronto Outdoor Art Fair is almost upon us and this year's fair has an great programming line up, including the following free talks. Sign up for free in advance.

Building the Creative City

July 6th from 1:00-1:45PM

With Anahita Azrahimi (Executive & Creative Director, TOAF), Tammy Yiu (Creative + Community, Partial), and Lauren Pirie (Artist and Muralist).

Art Before Dishes With Tiffany Pratt

July 7th from 3:00-4:00PM

Warp, Weft and Resin

July 7th from 5:00-6:00PM

With Robert K. E. Mitchell (MDes. Assistant Professor, Material Design, OCAD University) and TOAF artists: Dan Driscoll, Tania Love, and Alicia Niles.

The Collector's Panel

July 8th from 3:00-4:00PM

With Alex McLeod (Visual Artist), Justin Broadbent (Director and Artist), Regina Sheung (Owner, Labour of Love). Moderated by Tammy Yiu (Creative + Community, Partial).

Click Here to learn more
June 13, 2018 /Akin Collective
art talk, free, Art Fair, toronto outdoor art exhibition
Event

Photo via Queen West Art Crawl

Call for Submissions: Upcoming July & June 2018 →

June 13, 2018 by Akin Collective

Queen West Art Crawl

Vendor Applications

Deadline to apply: June 15th, 2018.

The Queen West Art Crawl (QWAC) is a charitable organization designed to celebrate and promote the art, culture and diversity of Queen West in Toronto. The cornerstone of QWAC is the Outdoor Art Exhibition in beautiful Trinity Bellwoods Park in September, which draws over 60,000 visitors annually.

 

Building Up Together 2018

Art Auction Fundraiser

Deadline: July 10th, 2018.

Building Up is a non-profit social enterprise that installs water efficient retrofits in affordable housing buildings while training and employing people with barriers to employment to carry out that work.

 

North York Arts

Northbound Gallery Program

Artists have the opportunity to apply and receive FREE exhibition space in North York in 2019.

Deadline: June 28th, 2018.

North York Arts (NYA) is an arts service organization designed to address the needs and interests of North York artists, arts organizations and residents.

 

Myseum of Toronto

Myseum Intersections Festival

Project Proposals

Deadline: July 15th, 2018.

Myseum Intersections is an annual festival that will take place during the entire month of March, 2019. The festival explores intersectional perspectives of Toronto through collaborative exhibits, events, workshops and tours.

 

Quest Art

2018 TD Wealth - Thor Wealth Management Group Art Prize

To acknowledge how a vibrant arts and culture community leads to personal and economic growth for all, TD Wealth - Thor Wealth Management Group is working with Quest Art to sponsor three prestigious art prizes for our 2018 annual juried exhibition.

Deadline: July 23rd, 2018.

Quest Art School + Gallery is North Simcoe’s premier public gallery with the mission to engage and enrich the community through visual arts education, exhibition and appreciation.

June 13, 2018 /Akin Collective
calls, call for submissions, submissions, applications, Apply, artist, art fair, fundraiser

2018 Thesis Award Show: 'Patria Potestas' by Michelle Peraza at ARTiculations →

ARTiculations
June 11, 2018 by Akin Collective in Exhibitions, Contest

MICHELLE PERAZA

Patria Potestas

June 13th - July 13th, 2018.

Reception: Thursday, June 14th, 7-9pm

Location: ARTiculations, 2928 Dundas St West / Mon-Fri: 11-6, Sat: 11-5, Sun: 12-5

Michelle Peraza's recent body of work 'Patria Potestas' explores themes of ethnicity, origins, culture, tradition, skin colour, value systems, customs, identity, migration, integration, and familial hierarchy and bonds that raise vital questions. Large-scale portraiture is the catalyst allowing expression of these themes. Peraza chooses to paint individuals close to herself; people often ignored and unseen in the history of the painted portrait, particularly the Latino race/ethnicity. Matte black gesso creates a foundation of intensity and somberness to construct a version of the individual through a meticulous point system and linear comprehension of the face. High-realism allows the character, ethos, psychology, identity and appearance of the person to manifest. Large-scale provides a status as well as time for acknowledgment given the individuals frequent invisibility. The individuals Peraza chooses to paint are everyday people. They are immigrants. They are Canadian. They have stories and struggles. They provide consideration of their humanity, the artist's own humanity, our places in the world, and an interpretation of the face through paint.

The Thesis Award Show is a collaboration between ARTiculations, Graven Feather Studio and Akin Collective in support of graduating post secondary students. A call was sent out across the Province for applications in search of students demonstrating a coherent body of work unique in both concept and execution. Overwhelmed by the response, we extend a huge thank you to all of the applicants and congratulate this year's winner, Michelle Peraza. In addition to a solo exhibition Michelle will receive studio credit with Akin Collective as part of the award. 

Learn More here
June 11, 2018 /Akin Collective
thesis award show, Exhibition, art exhbition, painting competition, Painting, opening reception
Exhibitions, Contest

Call for Submissions: ZIPE 2018 →

Artscape Youngplace
June 11, 2018 by Akin Collective in Call for Submissions

ZIPE is a free Zine Production and Exchange Program offered by Paperhouse Outreach Collective in partnership with SKETCH Working Arts and Toronto Art Book Fair, for youth and young adults (13-29) who identify as one or multiple: 2SLGBTQIAP, disabled or POC, led by local artists who also self-id as a member of the above communities.


Youth will learn skills such as writing, image making, zines & book making, Risograph printing, how to prep for fairs (sell your art work) + so much more from our wonderful and talented team of artists! PLUS show & tell with Art Metropole AND the opportunity to table at Zine Dream!

Dates: July 3rd - July 28th, 10 Sessions

FOOD + TTC Tokens / Tickets provided for all workshops
LIMITED spots available

Deadline to apply: June 19th 2018

ZIPE 2018 is funded by Toronto Arts Council and Community One Foundation, with support from Art Metropole, Zine Dream, and Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild.

Contact Flora, outreach@paperhousestudio.com / 416.546.7589 for more info or alternative methods for applying.

Apply Here
June 11, 2018 /Akin Collective
Zines, Zine Dream, zine, call for submissions, printmaking
Call for Submissions

Akin Show and Tell on June 26 at Akin St Clair

June 05, 2018 by Jen Pilles in Event, Exhibitions, Vitrine

Every month Akin hosts a relaxed and fun ‘Show and Tell for Artists’ at one of the Akin Collective studios or at one of our partner organizations' locations. This is a time for Akin members and other Toronto artists to show completed works or works in progress and get friendly feedback and answers from their peers in a casual studio setting.

Feel free to bring art to share, bring a friend or two, bring snacks or drinks or just bring yourself! Come for the conversation or just to meet other artists and makers. This is FREE public event - everyone is welcome!

The June edition of the Show and Tell is happening at Akin St Clair at 1747 St Clair Ave West. 
 

Click here to RSVP


Accessibility:
This building is all on one floor. Akin St. Clair Studios regrets any barrier to access. If you require more information or are concerned about accessibility barriers please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Akin St. Clair Entrance: The side door has no steps to enter. It is 46 inches wide. The front door is 35 inches wide and has one step.

Inside: When entering from the side door one enters into a hall. Most areas are flat inside. There is a step to get from the back hall to the kitchen. It is still possible to get to the kitchen without using the step by going around to the other entrance to the kitchen.

There is one all genders bathroom. There is one step to get to the bathroom. There is no alternative bathroom or alternative route to the bathroom. The bathroom door is 30 inches wide. There are no grab bars in the washroom and the toilets are not raised.

Getting here by TTC:
Akin St Clair Studios is accessible on the 512 St. Clair Streetcar Line and by bus, take either Bus 168 from Dundas West Station, or Bus 127 Spadina Station to Keele and St. Clair.

Parking:
There is a private parking lot to the west of the building. It is likely that one will find a parking spot there. If not there is residential parking on Houndslowt Heath Road and other residential streets in the area.

June 05, 2018 /Jen Pilles
event, Show and tell, akin creative, social, networking, art critique
Event, Exhibitions, Vitrine

Akin Members at Field Trip Music and Arts Fesitval →

Fort York National Historic Site
June 03, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event, Member News

Field Trip brings some of the world’s best music right to the heart of Toronto, but the festival is also about much more than that. Food, art, comedy, family, fashion and a spirit of discovery count among the many inspirations, and each year’s Field Trip is dedicated to collaborative explorations of those themes. At this year's festival you can find Akin Ossington members Leora Israel's and Jenn Kitagawa's work is on display in the Field Trip Marketplace and in one of the Art and Design areas.

20180602_161452.jpg
20180603_104134.jpg

Leora Israel is a Toronto potter with a focus on functional wares with a modern twist. You can shop her line of beautiful ceramics, The Otter Potter, in the Field Trip Marketplace this weekend. The Field Trip Marketplace is an annual hub where fans can browse unique wares from some of Toronto’s most talented crafters and designers.

Jenn Kitagawa is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist and designer based in Toronto, Canada. Her vision is to experiment with different mediums, techniques and materials to create a diverse body of work generating excitement in the viewer. You can find her gigantic bean bag installation just south of the Fort York stage.

Learn More Here
June 03, 2018 /Akin Collective
festival, field trip, Artist, Installation, marketplace, Art Fair
Event, Member News

"Quilt" by Mark Buck, 1987 - Serigraph / SilkScreen with Confetti on Paper   Edition 1 / 1

Akin Dupont artist Mark Buck presents 'MARKBUCK.ART PREMIERE ART EXHIBITION 1987- 2017' at Artscape Youngplace

June 01, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event, Exhibitions, Member News

Akin Dupont Artist Mark Buck presents 'MARKBUCK.ART PREMIERE ART EXHIBITION 1987- 2017' from June 5 - 16 in studio 107 at Artscape Youngplace.

This solo show will be exhibiting over 25 of Mark’s art: from acrylic on canvas and paper, mixed media, silkscreen mono prints and some sculptures. All the artwork is available for purchase.

Mark will be discussing his artwork and techniques on Saturday, June 9 2018 at 12:30 PM and again at 3:00 PM. Please RSVP which time slot you will be attending with your number of guests to me@markbuck.art.

Mark Buck was born in Toronto in 1953. Art has always been part of Mark’s life. Mark’s multi-faceted talents are reflected in his own artwork which he creates. His silkscreen mono prints, acrylic paintings on canvas or paper, mixed media creations often have a “Jackson Pollock” effect which represents the metamorphosis of form, texture, shape or colour. Mark remarks: “The struggle of each colour, form, texture and shape, like man against the elements and nature, are in a never-ending struggle for their freedom and identity.” Mark’s artistic style is very influenced by the Bauhaus Shape Principles. For more information visit www.markbuck.art

EXHIBITION HOURS:
MON:   12:00 PM-5:00 PM
TUE:    1:00  PM - 7:00  PM
WED:  12:00 PM - 5:00  PM
THU:   1:00 PM  - 7:00  PM
FRI:    12:00 PM - 5:00  PM
SAT:   12:00 PM - 5:00  PM
SUN:    12:00 PM - 5:00  PM

 
June 01, 2018 /Akin Collective
event, Exhibition, member news, Mark Buck, Artscape
Event, Exhibitions, Member News

Summer Art Shows Featuring Andrea Bailey →

Jimmie Simpson Park
May 31, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event, Member News

Andrea Bailey of Akin Lansdowne uses colour to suggest mood, time, light and place.  Most of her paintings are acrylic on paper.  Recently, she has been working with oil paints on canvas using a palette knife.

Andrea Bailey will be at the Riverdale Art Walk on June 2nd and 3rd in booth 136 and the Rosedale Art Fair on June 9th and 10th. 

The Riverdale Art Walk is a two‐day, public fine art exhibition showcasing over 170 established and emerging artists in Jimmie Simpson Park in Toronto’s flourishing Queen East arts district.

The Rosedale Art Fair is two-day event that showcases the notable work of over 50 emerging to established artists from across the GTA, at participating Rosedale stores and restaurants.

Click here to learn more
May 31, 2018 /Akin Collective
art show, Art Fair, Art Walk, paintings, painter
Event, Member News

Painters Make Better Lovers Group Show →

Northern Contemporary
May 31, 2018 by Akin Collective in Exhibitions, Event, Member News

 

Painters Make Better Lovers is a group painting show inspired by American painter Molly Zuckerman-Hartung’s 95 Theses on Painting. Using her manifesto as a jumping off point, the group proposes works that examine and reflect their own personal, political, and theoretical motivations as painters. As emerging artists, they seek a greater understanding of how elements including: aesthetics, the history of painting, and gender inform the underlying ethos of their work. Like Molly Zuckerman-Hartung, the artists work intuitively and celebrate painting as an ongoing conversation with oneself, other artists, and the environments they inhabit.

Painters Make Better Lovers

Location: Northern Contemporary

Dates: May 31st - June 5th, 2018.

Opening Reception: May 31st, 2018 at 6:30PM

Painters Make Better Lovers features the work of Rebekah Andrade of Akin King, Cristine Yunyk, Adelaide Thorhallsdottir, Inga Gircyte, and Kristin Morthens.

Through languages of painting and sculpture, Rebekah Andrade’s work explores definitions of the ideal form in its many expressions of architecture, geometry, space, and colour. Within these elements, she is interested in our desire to perfect characteristics and draws inspiration from challenging personal instincts to control and manipulate her inhabited spaces. Using this as a jumping off point the methods and boundaries of subject and medium are negotiated, intuitively evolving her geometric combinations, application of paint, and construction of forms. With a minimalistic approach of transitioning overlapping layers of ambiguous lines, texture, faded curves, and contrasting colours, we become emotionally receptive to the spaces within her paintings.  Rebekah holds a BFA in Visual Arts from Emily Carr University of Art and Design and is currently completing a Graphic Design certificate through Parsons School of Design in New York City. Her work has shown in Chile, Vancouver, and Toronto.

Click here to learn more
May 31, 2018 /Akin Collective
Art Gallery, art show, artist, painter, Painting, Exhibition
Exhibitions, Event, Member News

TONIGHT ONLY: Mind Blend Exhibition Feat. Samar Hejazi →

Free Space
May 25, 2018 by Akin Collective in Exhibitions, Member News

Blank Canvas Presents: Mind Blend. A one day group art show featuring nine artists who each represent a different medium of art, including Samar Hejazi of Akin King (soon to be Akin MOCA). Blank Canvas invites you to a medium bending atmosphere with each piece aimed to challenge the viewers’ understanding of different art forms. There will be plenty of Instagrammable moments!

Featured Artists: 

Ness Lee https://www.instagram.com/nessleee/
Jordan Sook https://www.instagram.com/jordansook/
Tahsin https://www.instagram.com/tahsinthegood/
Tabban https://www.instagram.com/tabban__/
Jessica D'Angelo https://www.instagram.com/seriousbetty/
Brianna Roye https://www.instagram.com/briannablank/
Katherina Ilenseer https://katherinailenseer.cargocollective.com
Claire Davis https://www.instagram.com/citystitch/
Samar https://www.instagram.com/samarhejazi/

Samar Hejazi is an artist of Palestinian descent, born in the U.S. and raised in diverse communities in the Middle East and Canada, she uses her art to question ideas surrounding identity. 

Through meditations on traditional practices and her present environments, Samar's work merges eastern and western styles to express how the crossing of cultures can form new identities. Her choice in medium follows the conceptual needs of the piece which has primarily been embroidery, but also includes works on paper and new media.

Show sponsored by: Ace Hill
Curated by John Samuels and Stefany Lee
Sounds by Beat Sampras

Hours: 7-11PM
Admission: $10 at the door

*This is a 19+ event*
*Free Space is not accessible*

May 25, 2018 /Akin Collective
Exhibition, art show, member news
Exhibitions, Member News

Workshops & Awards for Newcomer Artists: June 6th and 15th

May 24, 2018 by Oliver Pauk

The city of Toronto has a variety of new resources and events specifically geared towards Newcomer Artists. It's time to take advantage! Join the CSI (Centre for Socical Innovation) and The Myseum for a (1) networking event featuring free workshops and speakers. And nominate yourself or someone you know for the (2)The RBC Access Fund, which offers up to $1500 in support of arts projects (artist fees, supplies, equipment rental and other costs) and professional development!

1.  The Myseum Connects: Borders and Barriers Creating Cultural Networks for Newcomers    (Deadline June 6th 2018)     In partnership with the Centre for Social Innovation, get together for a networking event for newcomers to meet and make connections with some of Toronto’s key arts & culture organization representatives. We will have a keynote address by Dr. Duke Redbird and free workshops.

Workshops:

  1. Introduction to Grants facilitated by Ontario Arts Council

Join the Ontario Arts Council for a free grant writing information session. Learn about the Skills and Career Development: Indigenous Arts Professionals and Arts Professionals of Colour program, other OAC programs, and applying using Nova, OAC’s online application system.

  1. Staying Updated facilitated by Paralia Newcomer Arts Network

This workshop, geared towards emerging visual artists and arts administrators, will provide tips and online resources to keep yourself up-to-date with call for submissions, work opportunities, grants, and arts & culture related events taking place across Toronto.

  1. Employment in Arts and Culture facilitated by WorkInCulture

The cultural sector embraces a wide range of disciplines including music, dance, theatre, film, literature, heritage, craft, visual art and design. The City of Toronto in particular, has a strong and vibrant cultural sector that continues to grow, attract, and develop a community of workers who are eager to showcase their creativity and talents. Join WorkInCulture for an introduction into the employment in the cultural sector – you will receive an overview of arts & culture career paths and resources to help you understand how your skills could be applied to a range of employment opportunities

RSVP and find more info at paralianewcomerarts.com !


2.    The RBC Arts Access Fund (Deadline: June 15, 2018) is designed to support newcomer artists across Toronto. The Funds range from $500 to $1500 and supports costs associated with arts projects, such as artist fees, art supplies, equipment rental, space rental and food costs for a workshop or event.  In addition to art projects, this fund also supports professional development, training and mentorship requests for newcomer artists looking to improve their skills in working with community. 

For more information and eligibility criteria visit: 
http://www.neighbourhoodartsnetwork.org/awards/awards-programs/rbcartsaccessfund

The RBC Arts Access Fund is designed to support newcomer artists across Toronto. The Funds range from $500 to $1500 and are intended to  support costs associated with arts projects, such as artist fees, art supplies, equipment rental, space rental and food costs for a workshop or event.  

In addition to art projects, this fund also supports professional development, training and mentorship requests for newcomer artists looking to improve their skills in working with community.

You are eligible to have support by other partners, organizations and artists, however the project itself should be your vision.


Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be:
- Residents of the City of Toronto for at least one year prior to the application deadline.
- Newcomers who have been in Canada between 1 and 7 years
- A permanent resident or Canadian citizen
- Be over 18 years old
- A member of Neighbourhood Arts Network, if you are not a member, sign up here

*Artists can receive only one RBC Arts Access Fund per year.

DEADLINES

  • Round 1: JUNE 15, 2018 | 11:59PM
  • Round 2: OCTOBER 1, 2018 | 11:59PM

INTERESTED IN NOMINATING/SELF-NOMINATING?

1. Visit https://tac.smartsimple.ca/welcome/taf/

2. Create a Smart Simple account 

3. Submit your nomination form

Note:

- Nominees can save their application at any time before submission by clicking ‘Save Draft.’ Nominees can log-in and out of TAF Awards portal as many times as needed before clicking ‘Submit.’

- Please ensure you are on the Toronto Arts Foundation Awards portal and NOT Toronto Arts Council.

 

QUESTIONS?

Please contact Angie at 416-392-6802 x 218 or email angie(at)torontoarts(dot)org

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 24, 2018 /Oliver Pauk

Introducing Akin Collective Career Launcher Award Winner Natalie King! →

May 24, 2018 by Akin Collective in Award

Congratulations to Natalie King, recent OCAD University Drawing & Painting graduate and winner of the 2018 Akin Collective Career Launcher award! We look forward to having Natalie join us at the studio! Natalie will receive a free 50sqft foot studio space for a 4-month period at one of Akin's shared workspaces in 2018-2019.

The Career Launchers are unique, high-profile opportunities for graduating students of OCAD University, developed in partnership with industry organizations such as Akin in order to help new graduates start their professional practice after school. 

Currently based in Toronto, Natalie's work is influenced by colour, form, shape and identity. Her practice ranges from drawing, painting, print-making and installation. Centered through a queer lens involving portrayals of femme identities. Natalie King’s works are about embracing the ambiguity and multiplicities of identity within the queer femme experience. King’s works are a portrayal of life with it’s both harsh realities and the resilience of the human spirit.

Learn More about the artist
May 24, 2018 /Akin Collective
artist, Award, Career launcher, Painting, OCAD
Award

Community Arts Space Open Studio: Treaty Talk with Akin King artist Louis Esmé this Saturday at the Gardiner Museum

May 23, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event, Member News

Sat May 26, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Gardiner Museum, 111 Queen's Park, Toronto
Registration required. 

Part of the Community Arts Space: Recent Histories at the Gardiner Museum, Treaty Talk is Co-presented with Akin King artist Louis Esmé and Titiesg Wîcinímintôwak Bluejays Dancing Together Collective. 

Join knowledgeable community members Jodi Lynn Maracle (Kanien’kehá:ka) and Shane H. Camastro (anishinaabe) in this short, interactive workshop on Treaty relationships and responsibilities in Dish with One Spoon Territory. As practicing artists and educators from this place, they will facilitate activities and discussions to root community arts and museum practices in these original agreements.

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About the Community Arts Space: Recent Histories:
Inspired by the transformative aspects of ceramics, both real and metaphorical, the Community Arts Space is the Gardiner’s incubator for arts-based community projects. In collaboration with local artists, designers, and collectives, the Museum will mount five public projects that examine how cultural knowledge is passed on or performed, and the role of the museum in cultivating the so-called lived and living memory.

About Louis Esmé:
Louis Esmé (Mi’kmaq-Acadian, Irish) is an artist, writer, and illustrator whose social art practice spans over 20 years working within grassroots, artist-run, and academic spaces. A co-founder of Titiesg Wîcinímintôwak // Bluejays Dancing Together Collective, which has gathered knowledge, stories, and desires for re-urbanized Two-Spirit people and their relations since 2012, Esmé’s work is granny craft/old media with social commentary akin to Statler & Waldorf from Sesame Street. For the Gardiner’s Intervention Project, which will evoke participation and educational potential within the expanded field of ceram­ics, Esmé will make seven clay districts representing the Mi’kmaq Seven Directions in the Gardiner’s Exhibition Hall, lobby, and permanent collection galleries. Vessels referencing Woodland pottery forms will reckon with ongoing colonialisms, while offering witness to Indigenous survivance on the Dish with One Spoon Territory.

Community Arts Space Open Studio Schedule: 

1 – 5 pm | Micro Comedies, Macro Tragedies
2 – 4 pm | Treaty Talk
2 – 5 pm | ‘Take a Future, Leave a Future’ All-Ages Game
3 – 4 pm | Invisible Footprints Panel
4 – 5 pm | Panic in the Labyrinth Open Mic

The Community Arts Space is the Gardiner Museum’s annual summer incubator program for arts-based community projects conceived by up-and-coming local creatives. Since 2015, we’ve partner with artists, curators, and cultural innovators to present free, accessible programming—from live musical performances and film screenings, to collaborative art workshops—all inspired by the transformative aspects of clay.

This year’s theme, Recent Histories, is inspired the Gardiner’s mission to be an active force in the community, and to truly reflect the histories, lived experiences, and traditions of its publics. Through five different project streams, our partners will transform the Museum according to this theme, activating our 307-square-metre third-floor Exhibition Hall as well as our Outdoor Plaza.

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May 23, 2018 /Akin Collective
event, Gardiner Museum, ceramics, treaty talk, loise esme, community arts space, akin community, member news
Event, Member News

Art Supplies Drive for Walnut Artists - This Friday 4-7pm !

May 23, 2018 by Oliver Pauk

 

PLEASE SHARE WIDELY! 
There is going to be an Art Supply Drive this Friday, May 25th to help the Walnut Studios artists who lost everything in a devastating fire this past weekend. All donations are appreciated, as even studios located at the opposite end of the building have had extensive damage due to toxic smoke and ash resulting from the flames. 

The drive will take place at 229 Niagra Street, just north of King at Acme Coworking. Supplies of any and all materials are welcome as more than 20 artists have lost the contents of their studios and collected works. Additionally, a GoFundMe Campaign has been started to assist the artists, many of whom are facing a tough real-estate market in Toronto where rent prices have skyrocketed over the last 10 years. 

For more information about Walnut studios, their history, their artists and their community involvement initiatives, please see their Facebook Page and website. 

May 23, 2018 /Oliver Pauk

Sneak Peek of the Akin Studio Program at MOCA this weekend!

May 23, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event, Residency, Member News

One weekend every year, Doors Open Toronto provides an opportunity to explore some of the most architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings across the city – many of which are not usually open to the public.

Akin would like to invite you to join us this weekend at 158 Sterling Road as the doors open to a sneak preview of the new home of the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto Canada (MOCA). Featuring all five floors of the museum. MOCA will be open 12pm-5pm Saturday and Sunday for Doors Open Toronto. Last entry will be at 4:30pm.

This preview of the building will highlight the architecture of the exhibition and programming spaces. Take the opportunity to join MOCA as a member and learn about upcoming exhibitions. An Akin staff member will be on site on Floor 4 to answers questions about Akin. 

Akin will facilitate the rental of artist studios on Floor 4 of the museum through the Akin Studio Program. Selected artists will be moving their studio into the museum for a term of one year and will share their practices with the museum’s visitors through programs such as open studio events.

Floor 4 of MOCA will integrate these studios, with residencies and a workshop space for educational programs. The studios will vary in size from approximately 50 to 250 square feet and will be designed by Akin to create a light and welcoming environment for artists to develop their work. Similar to Akin’s other seven locations, the space will foster a community atmosphere and the exchange of ideas.

For more information about the Akin Studio Program please visit akin.art/moca

May 23, 2018 /Akin Collective
event, MOCA, Akin Studio Program, free, doors open toronto, doors open, tour, architecture
Event, Residency, Member News

Akin Vitrine Gallery + Kate Drwecka →

Clock Factory Building
May 23, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event, Exhibitions, Member News, Vitrine

We are very excited to present new work by Akin St. Clair member, Kate Drwecka in our Vitrine Galleries for the months of May and June! 

Her installation is based on her most recent project, Becoming: a 31 page printed horror comic, the first in a series of mini comics exploring horror’s ability to process real trauma through representation. The original pages measure roughly 16.75" x 21.25", and the final product is a mini-comic that is 5.5" x 8.5". This installation features some of the original pages, and a recreation of the iconic mirror and monster from the comic. 

Becoming is a story of repression, denial of self, and how that presents itself in our lives. Laila is a woman who lives alone with her past, haunted by a ghastly figure living in her mirror. The reflection calls to Laila's unacknowledged history, begging her to confront her denied history. As Laila continues to refuse her past, the figure in the mirror grows stronger, to eventually manifest outside the mirror. 

Kate Drwecka is a freelance cartoonist/illustrator working and living in Toronto. She grew up in the cold climates of Canada, and studied at the School of Visual Arts in NY. As a small child, Kate wanted to grow up and become Freddie Mercury. She still does.

Currently Kate is working on a series about an all-girl supernatural detective agency, and a series of horror comics. Kate is an original member of the Akin Comic Club and has recently helped organize the Akin Comic Day event. A one-day celebration of comic books, comic making and comic artists! 

Becoming will be on view for the month of May in our Dupont Akin Vitrine Gallery, located in the Clock Factory Building at 1485 Dupont Street (entrance on Campbell Avenue). Find Akin Studio 215 on the second floor and follow the sign into the hallway around the corner. The building is open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday.

The exhibition will then travel to the Akin St. Clair Vitrine Gallery and be on view for the month of June at 1747 St. Clair Avenue West. Gallery is street level and can be viewed at any time.

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May 23, 2018 /Akin Collective
Vitrine, Akin Vitrine Gallery, akin vitrine, Exhibition, artwork, Gallery
Event, Exhibitions, Member News, Vitrine

Image from Walnut Studios

Support Our Friends at Walnut Studios →

Walnut Studios
May 22, 2018 by Akin Collective in Event

In the early morning of May 19, 2018, Walnut studios, nestled between Niagara street and Walnut Ave in Toronto experienced a devastating fire. The devastating fire in the north end of the studio, affected 22 artists who lost not only their artwork but also all of their art supplies. 

Founded in 2008, Walnut Studios is a community of 45 artists in a large warehouse studio in Toronto's King West Village. It is home to Painters, Sculptors, Fashion Designers, Jewellery Makers, Photographers, and Installation Artists.

As the friends, family and community of those artists affected by the Walnut studio fire, let's give back to our creative community during their time of great loss. All funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will be distributed so that the artists can purchase new equipment and art supplies to get making again. This money will also go towards helping these artists relocate temporarily while the major repairs are being completed on their Walnut studio spaces.

Click Here to Learn More
May 22, 2018 /Akin Collective
walnut studios, studio, Fundraising, Fundraiser, Artist, Art Studios, Community, community
Event
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