Why do I come to ArtHeart…..

'I like the computer lab for many reasons, but I like doing art on the computers, we make our own websites, draw pictures and little kids can colour in pictures. The Computer Lab helps me with my homework, I can do my school work on the computer and it will be more organized. We also research for projects or with interest we help others on the computer. The Computer Lab is a nice place to spend our time, we have fun and you can be with your friends.'
- Salini, Digital Art Program participant

'To not be bored. To be better at art.'
- Jessica, age 10, Children’s and Youths’ Art Program participant



'It’s a fun place. Something to do after school.'
- Michelle, age 9, Children’s and Youths’ Art Program participant

'It will keep us out of trouble and it’s fun…it will keep us from getting bored and throwing ketchup at old ladies!'
- J.C. and Hermando, Children’s and Youths’ Art Program participants

'I come to the art center because I enjoy doing art, I also come here to work. It's called the youth employment. It gives us kids/preteens chances to experience how it is like working here. We help make the snack for the people that come to the art center. We do grocery shopping for the snack. We help younger kids clean up. We do some paper work. We work an hour a week and we get (a minimum wage stipend) at the end of the week. It is pretty good here. Those are the reasons I come to the art center.'
- Judy, age 14, Youth Employment Project participant

'Being creative shouldn’t be anything to be afraid of. I’m here because of the lack of recreational activities in the area. Way out of staying bored. It’s easy going relaxing, it’s a real arts centre just not a room somewhere.'
- James Brown, Adults Arts Program participant

The Value of ArtHeart…..

Your work with the children in Regent Park is a remarkable example of how a thoughtful investment in our children and their creativity can make a genuine difference to their lives. You have opened a world of possibilities to the children – they can now see that there are exciting and challenging ways of channeling their energy and thinking about their own lives. They are being stimulated to create in an atmosphere that is warm and nurturing yet interesting enough to inspire them to work hard. This enthusiasm and pursuit of excellence can only spill over into other parts of their lives.
- Lola Rasminsky, Executive Director and Founder, Avenue Road Arts School