UPDATE ABOUT CREATIVE WORKS STUDIO (CWS)

There will be some staffing changes at CWS. Janet and Bernadette will both be leaving CWS. Janet on June 30th and Bernadette on July 8th.

The studio will close for in-person sessions after July 8th until the end of the month. Online sessions will continue.

A new creative lead will be hired in July and in-person programming will resume in August.

If you have any questions or concerns , please feel free to contact Juliana, manager either via email at jmattos@gsch.ca, or by phone at 416.203.2711 x 7271.

Some words from Bernadette… 

I want to thank everyone for sharing their creativity, their patience, their vulnerabilities and their genius with me. ?

I have learned so much from everyone and from being in community.

Creative community is what we need especially now, as we navigate our way out into a new, hopefully better, world.

With all of the members, staff, volunteers, instructors, and supporters over the years, being a part of Creative Works Studio has shown me the foundation for how to be compassionate and welcoming; as well as down-to-earth and visionary at the same time.

I feel really grateful to everyone and for the opportunity to grow, support, help and hold these past 4 years (and back in 2012 too.) You have helped me to be a better artist, and a better person.

Many blessings to you all and remember to say Yaaay!

Some words from Janet… 

gonna miss you all!

i feel very lucky to have had the chance to get to know you… some a little more than others, but regardless i hope you know that i have appreciated all the chats, laughter, creativity, challenges, and learning that i have been fortunate to share with you.

you welcomed and gave space for me to be myself, to ask questions, to sit in silence, to have fun!

i leave a more understanding and compassionate person, and i hope to continue to be part of your creative lives as the space opens up and you have the opportunity to share your stories, art and beautiful selves with the world.

so much love to you all…you are in my heart

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Creative Works Studio (CWS) is operated by Good Shepherd Non-Profit Homes Inc. in community partnership with St. Michael’s Hospital.

This community arts-based studio was founded in 1995 by Isabel Fryszberg, an occupational therapist and practicing artist with a vision that these two occupations could have significant benefit for persons living with mental illness and/or addictions.  To that end, the Creative Works Studio’s mandate is to provide individuals living with mental illness and/or addictions a place to heal through the power of artistic expression.

At CWS, each member is treated as an artist first and foremost.  Members are encouraged to reach their greatest potential and skill level through purposeful and inspiring creative art initiatives.

As a result of participating in the studio, members gain confidence and increase their sense of well-being while at the same time creating community within and outside of the studio. Returning to a meaningful and active life is the goal for everyone who participates in the program.

CWS is actively involved in education, mental health research and community outreach as a means of disseminating information and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness and addiction.

The Studio’s hours have temporarily changed due to covid 19. We are normally open 5 days a week and accept referrals from mental health agencies within the City of Toronto. However, we have put a temporary hold on referrals and we are doing a mix of online, phone and limited/safe-distancing, in-studio programming.

If you are interested in applying to CWS, please see our referral page: http://creativeworks-studio.ca/site/referral-information/