The artistic spirit of central Etobicoke shines at the Neilson Park Creative Centre, a local hub for professional and aspiring artists of all ages.
"It’s a unique visual art centre; there isn’t anything else like it," said Cindy Sherman, customer relations manager. "Not only does it showcase artists from the local community, but anyone in the community can come and take our classes."
The non-profit centre, which opened in 1992, boasts two gallery spaces for art exhibits such as Impact 2014, a juried art competition with cash prizes, which runs from July 14 to Aug. 7. And with four studio spaces that host classes and workshops, there’s no shortage of learning opportunities.
"A lot of the people (who) come and join know nothing about art, and by the time they get involved with a few classes they end up having their own show," Sherman said. "They become immersed in the art community. It’s not a community centre, but it’s a really good welcoming environment."
Children and teenagers can develop their talent at one of the many youth-oriented classes, like cartooning or portfolio development. The centre also offers a great way to beat summer boredom through their Artsmartz summer camps, which runs throughout July and August for children up to 13.
Adults are by no means left out; according to Sherman, beginners flock to Basics and Beyond, led by Louise Zych. But it’s Beyond Picasso with award-winning instructor Steve Rose that gets the popularity vote.
"It’s an expressive way of painting, so there’s no object in the art," Sherman said, adding the centre is offering a week-long Beyond Picasso bootcamp this July. "It’s almost therapeutic – it opens people up."
The centre is home to six resident groups: Calligraphic Arts Guild of Toronto; Etobicoke Handweavers and Spinners; Etobicoke Quilter’s Guild; Etobicoke Rugcrafters; Humber Valley Art Club; and The Etobicoke Art Group. Members of the community are welcome to join any group. Those who become members of the centre itself are able to join multiple groups, among other perks. In addition, any of the studio and gallery spaces can be rented for individual studio time, group use or for events.
Events and camps are run with the help of volunteers, a great way for high schoolers to earn credit toward their mandatory volunteer hours, Sherman said. For a full listing and registration for upcoming events and classes, or to get involved, call 416-622-5294 or visit neilsonparkcreativecentre.com
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