Introduction
It is clear that the pandemic is having a negative impact on people’s mental health. The effects of social isolation have created challenges in communicating with one another. Undoubtedly the impacts of the pandemic affect us all to some degree. However, these experiences have pushed us to find ways to communicate and connect with others virtually. Healthy Living through Arts have learned that social media is one of these powerful tools to disseminate information, connect emotionally while being physically distant, and reflect the changing landscape of communication. Information is empowering and this project aims to empower people through visual arts. By finding the energy every day through creative expression, this allows us to connect with others, inspire new perspectives and builds resiliency during the pandemic.
About the project
iFEED is a 4 part series of virtual painting workshops where young people can draw on their lived experiences and express themselves on a canvas. Lead by a youth facilitator, the space allows the process of collecting, sharing ideas while forming collective wisdom in a safe and positive space. This process builds resiliency during the pandemic and connects with individuals and communities through visual and cultural exchanges. Participants explore themes of Plants, Social Connections, Self Care and Capacity building.
iFEED (Find the Energy Every Day) is a City of Toronto Cultural Hotspot SPARK project
About our partner, City of Toronto
From May through December 2021, the Cultural Hotspot shines a spotlight on arts, culture and communities outside the core, inspiring a new vision about where culture thrives in Toronto. The City of Toronto has partnered with us to create our SPARK project, iFEED. Other virtual and in-person project include visual arts, music, dance, film, youth mentorship and employment, public art animations and installations and more.