Creative Community Muskoka: inclusive, affordable all-abilities classes for the love of art

Creative Community Muskoka launched its first painting night, a sold-out event, at Robinson’s Your Independent Grocer on November 9.

The project is the brainchild of Amber Gordon from Community Living Huntsville who was initially looking for a more accessible way to explore art and quickly realized that there are barriers that prevent many in Huntsville from accessing art instruction. Whether it’s timing, location, accessibility for those using a wheelchair or who may not be able to hold a paintbrush, or affordability, Creative Community Muskoka aims to remove as many barriers as possible. The sessions came to fruition thanks to a District of Muskoka Pay It Forward Muskoka Grant and a partnership with the Huntsville Art Society.

There’s clearly a need for it – the first night quickly sold out with organizers turning people away who wanted to register.

“To get out regularly to do this once a month isn’t in the budget for a lot of people,” said Gordon. “We have a very rich arts community but we had a gap around accessibility and affordability.”

Each session is just two dollars with instruction provided by artist volunteers and assistance from Huntsville High School students. Helena Renwick from the Huntsville Art Society was the first instructor; Diane Finlayson will teach the next class on December 14. And Gordon welcomes contact from anyone who is interested in volunteering to help.

“We are looking for local artists to help in whatever way they can, either as an instructor or to help give tips and assistance to the class,” said Gordon. She would also welcome donations for supplies – the program’s budget is based on acrylic painting, but they’d like to be able to expand the project to other visual arts. “The artists who are involved are so excited, but we are limited by what we can provide for supplies. We would be thrilled to receive anything people want to contribute.”

The programs will continue monthly for at least a year; Gordon hopes to be able to offer them more frequently and longer term in the future.

“What we want is to see it grow. It’s not just about being artsy but it’s about building inclusive community spaces – places that are accepting and accessible. We’ve talked about next year doing some art installations in town at some of the festivals and growing Creative Community Muskoka to be a real presence in Huntsville.”

Space is limited for the classes, so register early. The next session is December 14 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. in the Community Room at Robinson’s Your Independent Grocer. Participants age 13 and older are welcome with advance registration. The fee is $2.00.

Contact Amber Gordon at 705-789-4543, extension 245, for more information, to register, or to volunteer.

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