Job and Community Placement Program
This page is in the process of being relocated (See Options for Adult)
KACL/Rotary Learning Centre
located at Resource Training Centre – next to Wholesale Club, 1 – 9th Avenue South, Kenora, Ontario P9N 2H8
Adult Literacy Program
Co-Directors: Deb Everley 467-5251 Sharon White 467-5237
Art Partners
KACL provides small group art classes with art facilitators, Jennifer Shumka and Shauna Degagne.
This new art program was designed to provide adults with an intellectual disability the opportunity to express themselves creatively while partnered with another member of the community. Partners are recommended for those who need physical assistance and for social reasons; however, group participation and interaction is encouraged. Most of the participants work independently within the group setting and enjoy the comfortable, emotionally supportive atmosphere.
The Art Partners groups generally consist of eight to ten people who gather for one to two hours per week, for six to eight weeks. The groups meet at the Kenora Wellness Centre.
Art Partners focuses on the creative process and not the end visual result. Freedom of choice is provided and experimenting with the variety of art materials (acrylics, water colours, pastels and collage) is encouraged. Each art group has a general theme such as wellness, community, and strength. Art activities are suggested by the facilitator at the beginning of each class. For example, one class was asked to illustrate their strengths in a self-portrait. Group discussions are guided by the facilitator and participants are given the chance to share their experiences and insights with the rest of the group. Everyone is constantly reminded that "there is no right or wrong in art.” Art Partners provides the opportunity to participate in meaningful visual art activities in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. Art is a tool for self-exploration, while increasing self-awareness and understanding of other people.
Past participants have shared the following thoughts on their Art Partners experiences:
I liked this week's class. I felt more connected to myself than ever. I let go of the result and went with whatever wanted to come out and trusted myself. And it went better then ever. I am happy with myself.
It was fun to try different things and learn different ideas. It taught me a lot about drawing.
Great experience, much fun. A relaxing time that goes by too fast. I'm loving it.
Supportive group! It feels great to explore art again.
I enjoyed meeting new people at the art class. It was a nice relaxed environment. Realized that I could actually do something with paints. Just have to figure out what to call it."
For more information on the available classes, or to register, contact:
Jennifer Shumka
Community Consultant (Art)
Art Partners
(807) 467-5262 or jen.shumka@kacl.ca
Well, Unfortunately the six weeks have come to end. The four groups of roughly 8 people per group gathered once a week at the Wellness centre to relax, explore their own creativity through drawing or painting. Each group had their own theme for discussion. The group dynamics had similarities and differences as well. Art Partners would like to thank all the people who kindly donated materials that helped the program run. Also, a big thank you goes to The City of Kenora for donating space at the Kenora Wellness Centre. The work space was appreciated and the staff were very helpful for allowing us to store some of the art materials. The reaction of the Learners was great! I can't believe how supportive and co-operative everyone was. I feel that everyone got something out of the art sessions. It was incredible seeing all the different personalities and hidden talents come out visually. Each person had the opportunity to explore the art materials on their own in an expressive way. Some of the activities were very experimental! The last two sessions became a little more challenging with everyone uniting and creating a large group painting. It was a learning experience to try to share in the creative experience collaboratively and get it all done within 2 hours. "What fun to share in the group work" commented one group member. Another group member wrote, "Very fun to join forces! Creative Juices were really flowing tonight. As we mixed, mingled and meshed our ideas of strength. In the end, our final product was evidence the strengths combined! Lots of fun and co-operation!" The Art Partners will be exhibiting their art work December 15 at HoJoes. Each group member was asked to pick their favourite art piece for display. We are also planning on having another art show date in January at Sunset Gallery. Come check out the wide variety of art work. Hope we see you there! |
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Northern Art Grant
Kenora Association for Community Living was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Ontario Arts Council to go towards the innovative Art Partners program.
This generous contribution is a very exciting award for KACL’s development agenda - the money will certainly stimulate growth and help to enhance each participant’s experience.
Art Partners is a new program that has evolved from a visual arts action research pilot project. It was inspired by forward thinking people who realize the impact of the visual arts on all members of society. The Ontario Arts Council is acknowledging this province’s northern communities and the importance of the arts therein.
Ruth Wilgress, Arts Partner Consultant indicated, "I am personally very pleased that KACL was taken seriously with regards to this award, considering participants require “no art skills or experience”. I find this grant evidences once again of my personal belief that we are all artists deep within, and that beautiful work needs only the slightest encouragement. The Art Partners program was designed to both promote the visual arts as well as advocate community inclusion. All of the participants enjoy coming to the venue and each seems enthusiastic to try the various painting and drawing exercises. Exploring new methods and new materials is always exciting, and many pupils ask if there will be additional classes in the future. I believe this money will answer some of those questions! "
Executive Director complemented consultant Ruth Wilgress on a job well done. Her work speaks to the dedication of kACL staff who work tirelessly to recognize the voice of the consumer at the same time as contributing to the enhancement of a meaningful and satisfying life for many residents of Kenora.