Dear Readers
Dear Readers,
Interdisciplinarity and co-creation are two philosophies we employ in programming the Kerrisdale Contemporary Arts Lab (K-CAL) series, which began working on art-based community development at the beginning of 2018. Setting the “art for its own sake” versus “art for social value” argument aside, I hope our effort and work will support individual creativity, connect people across cultural boundaries, and build the community centre’s capacities to innovate and express ideas.
What is the goal of the K-CAL initiative? Although my view may not be entirely representative of our board, I believe a community centre should nurture the arts in the communit not only for the sake of fostering creativity, but to spur synergies with its other activities in community development. Focussing only on a centre’s financial bottom-line can be short-sighted and detrimental to our cultural resources.
Speaking of synergies, the latest K-CAL workshop, titled, “Synergy“, led by artist Judith M Atkinson, was an interesting experiment. “Loosen up, everyone! Let the free flow of expression keep going!” said Judith, during her provocative drawing workshop that successfully invited the participants tap into their creative potential. With some rhythmic background music and various drawing resources, including Chinese ink and tree twigs, all participants produced rather surprising artwork inspired by an installation (the point of departure), honeysuckle vines harvested from a community garden and dried by Judith.
I was personally amazed by how effective the music was in helping me loosen up. The most amazing surprise of all was the transformation of all participants. One particular participant drew figuratively at the beginning but became an abstract expressionist toward the end. Judith’s masterful and supportive critiquing, as well as the relationship building within the group, helped drive these transformations. The “Synergy” workshop was a successful affirmation of the K-CAL philosophies of interdisciplinarity and co-creation. Three more K-CAL series are planned before the end of June, with different artists. We invite you to come and join us.
For May, we are gearing up for the Vancouver Regional Heritage Fair on Saturday May 19, 2:30pm – 4pm. This year, we are inviting non-profit organizations and community groups in arts, cultural, and heritage activities to showcase their work alongside with the 120 students presenting their research and artwork. Please contact the Community Engagement Chair (hondakeiko@gmail.com) to apply by May 15.
Judith M. Atkinson
Lastly, with the generous funding of the CoV Park Board Neighbourhood Matching Fund, KCC is leading the West Boulevard Welcoming Garden Project on the east side of the KCC. We are currently organizing the idea challenge to solicit innovative and inclusive ideas to enhance and enliven the community centre’s ‘front yard’. For more details, please stay tuned.
Chair, Community Engagement Committee
Editor-in-Chief
Kerrisdale Community Centre Society
