Reflecting on Art Hive - Creativity, Community, and Connection
From July to September 2025, Skills Society hosted three Art Hives that brought together community members from across the city to connect through art-making. Each Hive offered a welcoming, open space where anyone could create through free and self-directed expression.
Although Skills Society will not be hosting Art Hives in the immediate future, we want to extend our gratitude to everyone who participated and celebrate the meaningful moments we shared.
What is an Art Hive?
Art Hives are inclusive community art-making spaces open to all. They are built on values of accessibility, creativity, and community-building, inviting people to express themselves freely. These free, drop-in sessions require no prior experience; participants can experiment, try new mediums, and follow what feels meaningful to them. Self-determination is central to the Art Hive model, empowering people to choose the materials, approaches, and projects that speak to their interests and strengths.
Art Hive hosted by Skills Society
Each Art Hive we hosted was guided by a central theme, which shaped the art projects and materials available. Participants could choose to follow the themed project or explore their own ideas through the various mediums provided.
Art Hive #1 - Bee-longing
The first Art Hive explored the theme Bee-longing, inspired by the ideas of belonging, connection, and the collaborative nature of bees. Participants worked with bubble wrap, paper plates, paints, and mixed-media materials to create pieces that reflected their own experiences of connection. Hosted at ArtsHub Ortona, this session produced an array of artwork - from bee-themed creations to pipe-cleaner dragons and expressive magazine collages. The atmosphere was warm, playful, and grounded in community.
Art Hive #2 - Stamps
The theme for the second Art Hive, Stamps, came directly from our community suggestion board. Embracing the idea, our team visited Edmonton’s Reuse Centre to gather unique and sustainable materials for stamp-making. Participants experimented with cardboard, foam, bottle caps, stickers, bubble wrap, and various paints to create personalized stamps.Hosted in the Muk and Guk Room at Boyle Street Plaza, the space welcomed participants to flow in and out as they created and enjoyed iced tea generously provided by CommuniTEA Van. It was a lively, Art Hive filled with curiosity and experimentation.
Art Hive #3 - Art curated alongside Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, Barbara Lagrelle
The final Art Hive was created in collaboration with Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, Barbara Lagrelle, who guided the development of the art projects and materials. Together with volunteer Art Therapy student Vivian, Barbara designed two art projects: bead sun-catchers and rock paintings. The Art Hive was held on October 4th, shortly after the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and participants were invited to create, share stories, and foster commitment towards deeper understanding and reconciliation. We extend heartfelt thanks to the YWCA for donating The Cushing House as the space for our final Art Hive.
Thank you
Thank you to every participant, volunteer, and facilitator who helped bring these Art Hives to life. Your presence and creativity supported our mission of community-building and the inclusion and citizenship of individuals with disabilities.
We are deeply grateful to volunteers Vivian and Bo for their generosity and leadership. Vivian, in particular, stewarded each art project design and facilitated each Art Hive, and we appreciate her care and intentionality. And much gratitude to Miranda and Kacey from our team for their leadership and stewardship!
Skills Society is exploring ways to build capacity to continue offering Art Hives in the future. Until then, we encourage you to keep seeking out creative spaces where you can experiment, express yourself, and connect with your community.