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&co 2024 – Summer at North York Arts

&co 2024 – Summer at North York Arts

Introducing &co! A summer series of art activations bringing the creativity of North York artists to existing public programming. We bring NYA flare, everywhere. 

Catch us in the community to meet new local North York artists, participate in fun arts activities, and get to know your local neighbourhood arts organization!

Scroll below to see where we’ll be this summer!

Do you have an event you’d love to add an arts activity to? Reach out to jay-marie@northyorkarts.org to see if we might be a good fit.

 

&co and the 6 north york wards

See you soon!

Click on each event to learn more

 

   Willowdale Concert Series 

    Don’t Mess With the Don

    Play on the Runway

Willowdale Concert Series – Instrument Petting Zoo

July 18 – 5pm to 7pm

Lee Lifeson Park 

North York Arts
Stop by the NYA tent to test your talents with our instruments including a djembe drum, steel pan, electric guitar, and more! 

Willowdale Concerts in the Park – willowdalecentral.org/concert-series-2024
Back by popular demand, the Willowdale Concerts in the Park Series features live style performances where emerging and established Canadian artists showcase their talent. Come join us every Thursday evening (7-9pm for the months of June & July) at the Lee Lifeson Art Park, for a free outdoor concert.

Pre-concert park activities happening from 5-7pm.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and take in the show or have a seat at the Amphitheatre. These outdoor events are a great opportunity to enjoy the park as it was meant to be!

willowdale concerts in the park

Meet your Artists – Jay-Marie Phillips and Declan David

Born in Scarborough, Raised in Trinidad, Jay-Marie Phillips is a community programmer, event organizer and producer living in North York, working extensively in collaboration with others to create more diverse spaces through inclusive programming. Outside of her artistic contributions, she works with vulnerable sector youth as part of the Christie Ossington Neighbourhood Network In the Dundas West Neighbourhood.

Declan David is an Afro-Caribbean-Canadian visual artist specializing in animation, illustration, and painting. He graduated from OCAD in 2023 with a BFA in Fine Art, focusing on digital painting and expanded animation. He has a background in event planning working with various university of Toronto affiliated organizations. He is super excited to be able to share his skills with the arts community here at North York arts.

Don’t Mess with the Don – Saturdays at the Container

July 27 – 10am – 1pm

11 Redway Road 

North York Arts
Stay tuned for exciting programming!

Saturdays at the Container – dontmesswiththedon.ca/saturdays-at-the-container
Every second Saturday, Don’t Mess with the Don hosts kids and families for Arts & Crafts, a history/nature walk through the Don Valley and our stewardship site, and a free BBQ for all. Everyone will have an opportunity to be creative, doing easy and fun art projects related to the Don Valley. Decorate real birdhouses you can take home or paint your very own butterfly for your pollinator garden.

Led by a teacher and creative volunteers with everything provided, this is a great way to spend your Saturdays. If you missed a craft we always have extras from previous weeks and all the paint, markers, tissue paper, etc. to decorate. The crafts have a learning component and each project is tied to a specific aspect of the Don Valley.

Held at our Container Hub, 11 Redway Road, there is no cost and drop-ins are welcome.

dont mess with the don

Stay tuned to Meet your Artist!

Play on the Runway

Aug 17 & 18  

8 Hanover Road 

Working with North York based Grip Tape Artist Ashley Lettuse, and Sticker Artist Amanda Lederle, NYA will be providing a booth to invite patrons of Play on the Runway to facilitate an art booth with stickers, and drawing. Ashley will direct and guide guests on how to decorate the stickers, and execute their ideas. She will also provide her own sticker art for inspiration to attendees and give out to patrons. These stickers can go on the bottom of a skateboard, the side of a rollerblade, or even to display at home.

 

We will also be doing a DIY popsicle fingerboard making activation, facilitated by our outreach coordinators Maria Moreno and Declan David. This is a great activity for youth and families to participate in crafts, and take home something from this memorable event.

Life is a Journey promo graphic
The Slaight Family Foundation
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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

Contact us 

North York Arts
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

info@northyorkarts.org

647-477-6059

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Join Our Network

Hangar Skate

Hangar Skate

Hangar Skate – March Break Programming

Hangar Skate is returning for weekends this winter!

Join Northcrest and North York Arts for this free outdoor ice skating in the soon-to-be reimagined Hangar District and skate right outside the expansive 80,000-square-foot airplane hangar.

This year, we’re offering more programming for the community to enjoy. Whether you’re a music-lover planning a unique date night, a beginner keen to find a new hobby, or a parent searching for kid-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. 

No skates? No problem. Skates are available for rental again this year: $5 for adults and free for children under 12 years old. We look forward to seeing you on the ice!

The Hangar District in Downsview

Across from 95 Garratt Blvd

From January 19 – March 17, there will be open skating on Saturdays and Sundays:

    • 2pm – 5pm (free skating lessons available, details below)
    • 6pm – 9pm (with an immersive light show on the ice in front of airplane Hangars)

    New to skating? H2 OM (formerly Your Peak Performance) is offering free learn to skate programs for all ages on the ice. The two instructors will be on the ice, on Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm – 5pm.

    In collaboration with JustBGraphic and supported by VIBE FM, enjoy Friday DJ Skate Nights under a musical light show from 6pm – 9pm on:

    • January 19 and 26
    • February 2, 9, 16, 23
    • March 1, 8, 15
Register now
northcrest hangar skate march break
Register now

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the event located and how do I get there by car or transit? Is there Parking available?
From Wilson Station: Board the 118 bus towards Thistle Down via Tandridge. Get off when you get to Wilson Ave at Garratt Blvd. From the bus stop, head east on Wilson Ave toward Thistle Down Blvd. You’ll need to walk for about 11 minutes (approximately 800 meters).
 
Do I need to bring anything to participate?
Skates are available to rent for $5, while supplies last. To avoid the potential wait, we recommend bringing your own skates and helmets.
 
Will there be food available for purchase?
This year, there will be a food truck onsite selling hot and cold beverages as well as light snacks. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, but note that food and drinks are not permitted on the ice.
 
Are there helmets available to rent?
A limited amount of helmets will be available for rent, while supplies last. Please note that children under the age of 12 are required to wear a CSA-approved helmet while on the ice, and must be supervised by an adult. We recommend you bring your own.
 
Will there be washrooms available?
Yes. Portable washrooms will be available on-site.
 
Will there be lockers available to rent?
Lockers will not be provided. We recommend bringing only what you need to the event. Please note that the organizers are not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
 
How can I get in touch with the event organizers?
Please direct your questions, suggestions, comments or concerns to events@northcrestdev.ca

Meet the Artists

Orfe EcoArt

March 11 - Snow Elves

Meet Orfe!

Snow Elf

In this eco-friendly activity, we will create a snow elf doll using cardboard and paper. This beginner-friendly craft doll will keep us company as we skate together and welcome in the spring! 

Date & Time
Mon. March 11 @ 1:00PM-4:00PM

Artist Bio
I am an environmental artist and creator/facilitator of an eco-friendly community art program for children, Orfe EcoArt Program. My passion for art, environmentalism, and community engagement, along with my art education experience with the TCDSB and the TDSB, have strengthened my motivation to engage young people in protecting the earth through participatory community arts.

Orfe EcoArt Program is a social enterprise that aims to stimulate creativity and environmental responsibility in children and youth through its ecological art program, understanding that a creative mind and responsible attitude are key to becoming an active member of society and contributing to the health and safety of one’s community.

  • Instagram @orfeecoart
  • Website www.orfeart.com
Nailah Renuka

March 12 - Juggling 101

Meet Nailah!

Juggling 101 with Nailah

Discover the art of juggling in our Juggling 101 activity! Learn basic tosses, catches, and tricks, and take some home for you to practice. Develop coordination and balance while enjoying the thrill of mastering this timeless skill. Suitable for all skill levels, ages, and guaranteed to add a dash of excitement to your day!

Date & Time
Tue. March 12 @ 1:00PM-4:00PM

Artist Bio
Nailah Renuka (she/they) is an accomplished circus artist renowned for her dynamic performances in contortion, hand-balancing, acrobatics, Lyra, and pole, and a former dancer with Ailey II. Alongside her movement practice, Nailah is committed to inclusive teaching, drawing on eleven years of experience as a dance, gymnastics, and circus coach to provide accessible training for enthusiasts of all ages, experience levels, and backgrounds.

DasMingle

March 13 - Felt Flowers in Bloom

Meet DasMingle!

Felt Flowers In Bloom

Follow templates to construct felt flowers based on North York’s local flora or create your own beautiful felt flowers that speak to who you are

Date & Time
Wed. March 13 @ 1:00PM-4:00PM

Artist Bio
Dasmingle (Mindy) is an emerging Vietnamese-Canadian visual artist who is a lover of wacky doodles and causing creative chaos with her illustrations. Equipped with markers, fine liners and a reliable mechanical pencil, the sky’s the limit with these ideas. By mixing together bright and lively colours with whimsical line art and characters, she hopes to highlight that art can be an important source of healing, storytelling and fun.

Afsaneh

March 14 - Spring Ambassadors

Meet Afsaneh

Spring Ambassadors
Spring Ambassadors is a lively and fun workshop for skaters to create a headpiece with accessible and recyclable materials. Since March is the beginning of spring, they will decorate the prepared base of the headpiece to represent spring, and then they will have the chance to skate with their Spring headpiece as Spring Ambassadors.

Date & Time
Thu. March 14 @ 1:00PM-4:00PM

Artist Bio
Afsaneh is a puppeteer, theatre director and performer who has created numerous interactive theatre and puppetry works, focusing on rituals and folk stories. She has performed at international festivals across Asia and Europe. Since arriving in Canada, she has performed in the Tirgan festival, Concrete Cabaret, MABELLEarts, Iftar Nights, a puppet video series, Tirgan Kids Time, Jumblies; Ground for Goodness, and Old Man and the Rive”, Weefestival. She has also designed many puppetry and art therapy-based workshops for immigrants and asylum seekers.

Jasmine Vanstone

March 15 - Spring Impressions

Meet Jasmine

Spring Impressions
In this fun activity, you will etch spring motifs using printmaking techniques or use pre-designed lino blocks to create spring impressions on fabric squares for spring cleaning!  

Date & Time
Fri. March 15 @ 1:00PM-4:00PM

Artist Bio
Jasmine Vanstone is a Jamaican-Canadian multidisciplinary artist, facilitator and administrator with a passion to inspire, impact, and amplify marginalized voices through community engagement and arts education. Through her artistic practice, she experiments in various mediums -primarily collage, murals, and paper crafts- to share visual reflections of identity, wellness, and the natural environment. With vibrant lyrical abstraction and the power of mentorship, Jasmine has earned the JAYU Arts For Human Rights Award in 2022 and features her work across the city at exhibitions and events such as Nuit Blanche, Pearson Airport, Gardiner Museum, KUUMBA, DesignTO, and Finch TTC station.

In partnership with:

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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

Contact us 

North York Arts
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

info@northyorkarts.org

647-477-6059

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Join Our Network

Inspire North

Inspire North

Inspire North Festival

Discover Downsview

Get your FREE ticket on Eventbrite!

Art installations, music, dance, family-friendly fun, food, and more! Celebrate art and summer with us at The Orchard Pavilion this August, and leave feeling inspired and joyful, with a smile that’ll last the whole week!

Register below to secure your FREE spot on Friday Aug 18 2023 and Saturday Aug 19 2023 at The Orchard Pavilion (Downsview Park) Toronto, ON M3K 2C5.

Incredible art installations by Leila Refahi and Jieun Kim, watch these talented artists in action as they create murals in real time at The Orchard Pavilion! Then take a stroll through the Orchard and check out art created by four local North York based artists, and learn about their process and artwork.

Delightful music in multiple genres by Big Smoke Brass Band, Nathan Baya, and Sean Stanley Trio, these musicians are not to miss!

Beautiful dance performances by Rakeem Hardy and Zoe Kwan with TOES FOR DANCE that are sure to inspire and blow you away.

Family-friendly fun for your young artists! Stop by our kite-making eco-friendly art station with OrfeEcoArt on Friday, and come back an exciting arts activation by the lake on Saturday.

Whether you’re looking to gain new insights, connect with like-minded individuals, or simply want to participate in your local arts community, Inspire North is the place to be. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate the community. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience Inspire North.

Inspire North was made possible thanks to the support of City of Toronto, ArtsVest, Northcrest Developments, Canada Lands Company, and XOXO Downsview.

Get your FREE ticket on Eventbrite!
We can't wait to see you there!

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Friday August 18th – 6pm to 8pm

Big Smoke Brass

Toronto

Learn more

Born on the streets of Toronto in 2017, Big Smoke Brass is a leading voice in the Canadian brass scene. Dedicated to fostering community and connecting people through their high-energy music, the band has given hundreds of performances across Canada and released a growing discography of original music and videos. Wherever you may be, Big Smoke Brass is determined to share their love of music with you.

 

Catch Big Smoke Brass in the Orchard on Friday!

Rakeem Hardy

TOES FOR DANCE

Learn more

Rakeem Hardy, originally from Toronto, Canada, received their BFA and the Thayer Fellowship Award from the State University of New York at Purchase College. Through their time at Purchase, they performed works by Ohad Naharin, Doug Varone, Sidra Bell, Norbert De La Cruz III, and Roderick George. They received additional training at the Taipei National University of the Arts, as well at Springboard Danse Montreal where they performed pieces by Crystal Pite, Alejandro Cerrudo, and Aszure Barton. Rakeem has collaborated and performed with A.I.M by Kyle Abraham, Loni Landon Dance Projects, Collectif LA TRESSE, and Gallim Dance.

TOES FOR DANCE (TFD) is an artist-run non-profit contemporary dance organization based in Tkaronto. Our mission is to share art and connect people through workshops and performances; fostering a community inspired by shared values of curiosity and collaboration. Our understanding of contemporary dance emerges from the wide range of movement artists who lead and contribute to our programming; an expansive definition that includes a diversity of practices working in the current and ever-evolving ecology of dance. TFD has presented performances for over 10,200 students and public audience members and has offered educational classes/programs for approximately 13,000 people. www.toesfordance.ca.

Catch Rakeem Hardy and Zoe Kwan in the Pavillion!

Zoe Kwan

TOES FOR DANCE

Learn more

Zoe Kwan (dance artist, choreographer, producer), has worked with artists including Michael Caldwell and Colleen Snell in her professional career. She produced Carnival of the Arts: a full-length dance show featuring six original pieces. Zoe holds a BFA in Performance Dance and was awarded the Lipson Family Endowment Award for an emerging choreographer, the Performance Dance: Highest CGPA award, and the Orly Watkin Dance Award in 2021. Her work “I Woke Up” was selected to be featured internationally and locally in Ryerson Choreographic Film Festival, Bloom Festival, the fifth edition of Artists For Peace, and in Lisbon Dance Platform.

TOES FOR DANCE (TFD) is an artist-run non-profit contemporary dance organization based in Tkaronto. Our mission is to share art and connect people through workshops and performances; fostering a community inspired by shared values of curiosity and collaboration. Our understanding of contemporary dance emerges from the wide range of movement artists who lead and contribute to our programming; an expansive definition that includes a diversity of practices working in the current and ever-evolving ecology of dance. TFD has presented performances for over 10,200 students and public audience members and has offered educational classes/programs for approximately 13,000 people. www.toesfordance.ca

Catch Rakeem Hardy and Zoe Kwan in the Pavillion!

Orfelina

Orfe EcoArt

Learn More

I am an environmental artist and creator/facilitator of an eco-friendly community art program for children, Orfe EcoArt Program. My passion for art, environmentalism, and community engagement, along with my art education experience with the TCDSB and the TDSB, have strengthened my motivation to engage young people in protecting the earth through participatory community arts.
Orfe EcoArt Program is a social enterprise that aims to stimulate creativity and environmental responsibility in children and youth through its ecological art program, understanding that a creative mind and responsible attitude are key to becoming an active member of society and contributing to the health and safety of one’s community.

Create eco-friendly art with Orfe by the lake at our Inspire North Art Station!

 

Leila Refahi

Visual Arts

Learn more

Leila Refahi is a visual artist and experienced art teacher with roots in Canada, Iran, and Germany. She works with painting, installation, and digital media to create participatory art experiences. Her work mainly focuses on environmental issues, climate justice, and endangered animals. Refahi has presented six solo exhibitions and participated in more than 60 national and international group exhibitions and festivals.

Check out Leila’s Art Installation in the Pavillion!

Easels Arts

Orchard Pavillion

Learn more

Four artists will be exhibiting their work near the Orchard Pavillion, and discussing their art process and inspiration for the work they create.

Artists will be announced soon! Check them out by the Orchard Pavillion.

 Saturday August 19th – 1pm to 5pm

Sean Stanley Trio

Jazz

Learn more

The Sean Stanley Trio PROUDLY plays Jazz, Swing and the blues. The music of Louis Armstrong, Ray Charles, Erroll Garner and Duke Ellington as well as Sean’s original compositions. The band consists of 2-time Juno winner Kyle Tarder-Stoll on tenor sax, local Toronto staple bassist Gram Whitty and Sean Stanley on piano and vocal. Their music ranges from hot and fiery to smooth and sweet but is always based in the blues and improvisation.

Catch the Sean Stanley Trio in the Pavillion on Saturday!

 

Jay Northcott

Multidisciplinary Artist

Learn more

Jay Northcott is a multidisciplinary artist; director, playwright, burlesque dancer, and producer. Jay works to decolonize their art and practice with storytelling, movement, and gesture to create a foundation for their work. They push their own boundaries by rejection notions of a ‘final’ or ‘polished’ project and focus on a live-ness by continuing to discover their own bias as a theatre maker. They continue to grow and make it their mission to continue to unlift projects that put bipoc queer artists in the spotlight. They continue to create a community that is run by and for racialized and queer artist. Their goals: to make you cry and piss yourself at the same time, and to bleed, break, grind, make money, fuck, fight and blow some shit up with their post-britney2007 (after she shaved her hair off) aesthitic. Directing credits include: blacktop sky (obsidian thearte), passover (obsidian theatre, ad) sweat (arts club & citadel theatre, ad), scarlet letter (theatre calgary, ad), iphigenia and thefuries (saga collectif, ad), cows (theatre junction)

 

Alexandher Brandy

Drag King

Learn more

Producer of And Their Sibling, The House Royale, TMI+, and father of Rebel Gen Alexandher Brandy is passionate about creating safe spaces for Transgender, and Gender-Non Conforming people. Alex strives to bring people together through music and dance. You can find him fluttering around a good party, but if you really want to get him excited – ask him about queer history. Get the #BrandyEffect on instagram @axbrandy!

Catch Alexandher Brandy in the Orchard on Saturday!

 

Nathan Baya

Music

Learn More

Nathan Baya is an artist, songwriter and performer born and raised in Toronto, Canada. Baya’s parents immigrated to Canada from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

His cultural heritage has influenced his musical sound and through his electrifying energy, he has performed on over 100 stages including Toronto Pearson International Airport, Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment, Toronto Raptors, Afrofest, Toronto Black Film Festival, Afro Carib Festival, Vibe Arts Festival, Active Ontario Festival, Brussels Summer Festival in Paris, Unity Hip Hop Charity Festival, Royal Ontario Museum, Nuit Blanche, Youth Day Toronto, Canadian Music Week, The Art Gallery Of York University, Toronto Metropolitan University, University Of Toronto St George, University Of Toronto Scarborough, Rise Edutainment, Toronto Biennial of Art, etc.

Catch Nathan in the Orchard Pavillion on Saturday!

Jieun Kim

Visual Arts

Learn more

Jieun Kim (AKA. June) is Toronto based, Korean born painter, tattooer, and activist public muralist. She has exhibited her paintings around the world since 2010 at notable galleries and events, exploring the idea of “home” as an immigrant. Jieun’s painting practice is founded on her connection to the spaces around her; her love of the natural and urban environments and folk arts in Korea; the homeland where she was born and raised.
As an expansion of her studio work, Jieun is also interested in creating safe spaces through street art. She has created numerous murals with various arts organizations and corporate partners such as City of Toronto’s StreetARToronto, The STEPS Initiative, Toronto International Film Festival, Samsung, Stella Artois and more.

Catch Jieun in the Orchard on Saturday!

Hercinia Arts

Flamingos in the Orchard

Learn more

These bright and fun, larger than life puppets are an absolute delight for all ages.

 

Hercinia Arts Collective is a non-profit, multi-disciplinary, contemporary circus organization dedicated to the creation, production and dissemination of new contemporary circus works. Our mission is to further the development of contemporary circus through collaboration and integration of a multitude of voices and art forms, and to bring circus arts (and all of its intersections) to individuals, spaces and communities that might not otherwise experience it.

 

Patrick Walters

Spoken Word Poetry

Learn More

Patrick Walters is an international poet & arts educator, who is dedicated to sharing stories that speak to the issues we all battle daily. His work is a constant reminder to us to never give up on our own hopes & dreams, even in the face of the harsh realities of the world we live in. After releasing his debut Album, The OffShore Account, Patrick has been focused on his arts education and consulting career as well as sharing his works of poetry on stages across North America and the Caribbean region.

VIBE Arts and Community Music Schools of Toronto

Learn more
Learn how to create your own decorative buttons with our button maker! All supplies will be provided to create vibrant, summer themed wearable art!
 
VIBE Arts is a charity dedicated to providing arts education and artistic mentorship to the next generation of creatives. We seek to increase access and equity to the arts to encourage wellness, resilience and a sense of belonging.
 
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The Jane Finch site of Community Music Schools of Toronto (CMST) is excited to participate in the Inspire North Festival. At the CMST booth, community members are invited to test out various musical instruments and jam along with our staff! We will also share information about our programs and registration details for Fall 2023.

We look forward to having you join us to try out some instruments and share your musical talents! Community Music Schools of Toronto (CMST) is a registered charity that gives children and youth a rich and rewarding music and social education. We offer free music programs for students aged 4-18 in various disciplines (from piano, strings, voice, brass, wind and percussion to electronic music, songwriting and recording).

Creative Play with NYA Staff Jasmine

By the Lake

Learn more

Join Jasmine at the picnic tables by the lake for three fun and interactive nature art activities! 

Hula Hoop Pollinators
Decorate a bee, butterfly, or bird and tie it onto a hoop “windchime”

Nature Walk Bingo (Discover Downsview Bingo)
Discover Downsview on a self-led nature bingo card! Beetles, birds, and buildings – oh my!

Positive Affirmation Rocks
Spread positivity by creating positive affirmations on found rocks to create a message for our community. 

In partnership with:

Luminato Festival Logo
Luminato Festival Logo
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Light Up Downsview

Light Up Downsview

Light Up Downsview

A Drone Performance by Katharine Harvey at the Downsview Airport

Presented by Northcrest Developments in association with Luminato Festival Toronto and  North York Arts. Join us for an evening of illuminated wonder, as renowned Toronto artist, Katharine Harvey, uses drones flying in 3D formation to create ethereal magic in the sky.

Featuring complimentary hot beverages, entertainment, family activities and a breathtaking display of aerial art, don’t miss this FREE and unforgettable celebration on the soon-to-be re-developed Downsview Airport Lands.

Due to overwhelming demand, our LIGHT UP DOWNSVIEW event has reached capacity. To join the waiting list, click the link below!

For those in the Downsview area, Katharine Harvey’s “Turning In The Light” drone performance will be visible from the skies over Downsview at 7pm on November 12.

“Turning in the Light” is a twelve-minute show with 108 independent drones enacting eight scenes in the sky, some based on the artist’s recent paintings.  Katharine Harvey, known for her large-scale public artworks, explores the mystery of the cosmos as interpreted by architectural space. Northstar Drone Shows will program the flight paths of the drones to paint each artistic image in the sky. For those unfamiliar with this technology, imagine fireworks set to music without loud explosions, air, or noise pollution. Afterwards, we welcome the public to see the drone field up close and talk to the flight crew. The creation of this work was funded in part by an Ontario Arts Council grant.

Come early to enjoy pre-show programming by North York Arts between 6pm and 7pm. We’re thrilled to present music by local artist Benjamin De Graaf – DJ Elegance, and a Lantern Parade by Shadowland Theatre.

Make and bring your own lantern using the template below to participate!

Saturday November 12, 2022

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Across from 3 Hanover Road, Toronto (just north of Dufferin & Wilson)

FREE admission with advanced registration required. FREE parking and FREE 5-minute shuttle from Wilson Station. If you need to reserve a parking spot or if you would like to take the free shuttle from Wilson Station, please follow the prompts when you RSVP for this event.

EVENT SCHEDULE

6:00 p.m. Gates Open: free hot beverages, musical entertainment by DJ Benjamin De Graff

6:30 p.m. Lantern Parade by Shadowland Theatre, make your own lantern at home using the template below and join the parade!

7:00 p.m. Drone performance

7:30 p.m. Post-performance opportunity to see the drone field up close and talk to the flight crew.

Create Your Own Lantern - Instructions and Template
Join the Waitlist

Meet the Artists

Katharine Harvey

Learn More

Katharine Harvey’s paintings feature rich tactile surfaces and colour effects that convey a sense of luminosity, while her sculptural practice radiates similar perceptions of shifting light and tenuousness through the use of transparent materials.

Website

Shadowland Theatre

Learn More
Shadowland Theatre creates original theatre that entertains, engages, and inspires people to interact positively with each other and their environments. The company works with communities to animate local stories, create seasonal celebrations, and to nurture an appreciation of public and green spaces.
Shadowland’s distinctive theatrical vocabulary includes puppetry, mask, stilt-dance, illuminations, spectacle arts, and live music, animating streets, parks and outdoor spaces with vibrant and large-scale images. Shadowland’s designs have graced many theatre and arts organizations including, most recently, As You Like It for Dream in High Park and VideoCabaret’s Cold War.
Benjamin De Graaf

Learn More

Benjamin De Graaf – DJ Elegance is a Downsview local and musical connoisseur/curator and experiential event strategist. DJ Elegance’s musical style incorporates a wide variety of styles from past to present mixed or blended to perfection and filled with a twist of musical experimentation. When he is not lighting up event spaces he is instructing/teaching new DJs through his successful DJ Academy or working with youth in schools and community using his arts based educational workshops (Love Music Initiative) to work with youth and make a difference www.lovemusicinitiative.com.

In partnership with:

Luminato Festival Logo
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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

Contact us 

North York Arts
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

info@northyorkarts.org

647-477-6059

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Join Our Network

Big Band Exchange (in lieu of Sunday Serenades)

Big Band Exchange (in lieu of Sunday Serenades)

Big Band Exchange 2021

Big Band Exchange is Back!

Last year, in lieu of our music and dance festival Sunday Serenades, we brought you Big Band Exchange – an online video series where musicians and community members came together to exchange knowledge and ideas about the importance of music.

After a successful run, we are back this year with a new iteration that brings an even more impact straight to your screen. NYA invited tap dancer Travis Knights and Holla Jazz founder Natasha Powell, in dialogue with jazz singer Jenna Marie Pinard, to share their love for social dancing and their vision for a future where jazz and dance are reunited.

Tune in this Fall, starting November 18th, as we delve deep in four short video conversations with the artists on the following topics:

Date: First episode launches November 18th

v

Email: sundayserenades@northyorkarts.org

Episode 1 – The Contemporary Challenge: Striving Toward A New Identity

NYA is thrilled to launch the first episode of Big Band Exchange 2021! Episode 1, “The Contemporary Challenge: Striving Toward A New Identity” explores how jazz provides a blueprint for societal cohesion, celebrates individuality/authenticity, and promotes history and lineage.

Join Jenna Marie, Natasha Powell, and Travis Knights as they sit in conversation for improvised dialogues at Toronto’s own Lula Lounge, in between musical highlights showing how they honour the art of jazz! 

Episode 2 – Friends Don’t Let Friends Clap on 1 & 3: The Rules of The Game

After a fascinating Episode 1 that delved deep into striving toward a new identity in jazz, join Jenna Marie, Natasha Powell, and Travis Knights for BBX Episode 2, “Friends Don’t Let Friends Clap on 1 & 3: The Rules of The Game.” 

What are the rules to swing? Are there any? Who has been erased from the history of jazz? What can we improvise and bring to the classics? Join Jenna Marie, Natasha Powell, and Travis Knights in the Lula Lounge to explore these questions and more! You’ll gain insight on their knowledge through conversations in between musical breaks.

Episode 3 – Shout Out To The Mentors: The Gift of Passing It On

As we dive deeper into the future of Jazz today we’re taking it back in Episode 3 “Shout Out To The Mentors: The Gift of Passing It On.” Join us in the Lula Lounge as Jenna Marie, Natasha Powell, and Travis Knights show love to the elders!

In these conversations, with musical breaks in between, we learn that mentors don’t always mean major jazz influences but include all meaningful figures and experiences in between. Our artists will share how their influences helped to develop their practice today and how they bring their own artistic presence to these greats. 

Episode 4 – The Playlist: The Soundtrack of Our Lives

We’ve been able to see and hear where jazz is going, what the rules are and how we can bring our own spin, and lastly who has influenced the artform. In our final episode for BBX, “The Playlist: The Soundtrack of Our Lives” we explore the question “what are the songs that change(d) our lives?”

In episode 4 we’re back in the Lula Lounge with Jenna Marie, Natasha Powell, and Travis Knights as they engage in improvised conversations and performances to close out the series.

Thank you to:

Travis Knights
Natasha Powell 
Jenna Marie     

Ewen Farncombe
Reknee Harrett
Lowell Whitty

Sophia Malbarosa
Mason Victoria

Simeon Taole  
Danielle Ungara

Fanny Martin

Melissa Foster

Dancer
Dancer
Vocalist

Piano
Double Bass
Drums

Lighting Assistant
Sound Recordist

Filmmaker (Cinematoscape)  Filmmaker(Cinematoscape)

Creative Producer (Art of Festivals)
Program & Outreach Director (North York Arts)

Thank you: Tracy & Juana at Lula Lounge All the staff at Bird Box Toronto, Pizza Azul, Flor Mexicana and North York Arts

Meet The Artsits

Jenna Marie Pinard (she/her)

At the vanguard of ‘The New Jazz Generation’ and freshly graduated from the University of Toronto’s prestigious jazz studies program, Jenna Marie Pinard possesses a signature jazz and blues voice that hints at Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan and Aretha Franklin, but is distinctly her own. She is best known for her smooth-sounding jazz and rich R&B vocals, her wide vocal range, and passionate performances. She is quickly gaining reputation in Toronto as a uniquely warm spirit and engaging performer. Originally from Montréal, Jenna Marie now lives in Toronto and plays weekly all over the city. Jenna Marie is also the radio-host and co-producer for “Orange Grove Radio”, a 24-station syndicated radio show that plays “The latest and greatest in Canadian jazz”.

Instagram: @jennamarielive
Tik Tok: @jennamarielive
Facebook: jennamarielive

Natasha Powell (she/her)

Natasha Powell is a dance artist. She is the founder, artistic director, and choreographer of HOLLA JAZZ in Toronto, Canada, presenting historical jazz dances in a new light. No stranger to the stage, Natasha has collaborated and created over 20 dance works for live performance. FLOOR’D, her company’s first full-length production was nominated for four (4) Dora Mavor Moore Awards and named one of the top 10 dance shows of the recent decade by NOW Magazine.

Instagram: @tashapowellto
Website: natashapowell.com

 

Travis Knights (he/him)

I’m a Tap Dancer of the Ethel Bruneau and Mary Bruce lineage. The DaNcE has allowed me to play rhythms on stages around the world. It feels like the more experience I get within Tap, the more questions I have. I explore these questions as the host of the Tap Love Tour Podcast. The DaNcE is my way of connecting with people. For that reason, I am both grateful and dedicated to rhythm and movement.

Website: Travisknights.com
Instagram: @tkxperience
Facebook: Tap Love Tour
SoundCloud: Tap Love Tour
Patreon: travisknights

Big Band Exchange 2020

For the first time in over 25 years, we couldn’t gather on Mel Lastman Square to dance to the sound of the best Big Bands of Toronto and beyond. The safety of our community is always of utmost importance.

While the physical festival didn’t take place, we didn’t let that stop us from finding a way to bring the music to you. So, in lieu of Sunday Serenades, we launched a special project called Big Band Exchange and had YOU participate.

Big Band Exchange is a one-of-a-kind experience for you to connect with and support Toronto bands and musicians through the “exchange” of memories and stories about jazz, music, dancing, and everything in between through conversations and video podcasts!

Participants had the opportunity to sign up for a 1-to-1 30-minute conversation with a big band musician to chat all things music! Had a question, comment, or idea? This was a unique opportunity to connect with local talents.

Then, Every Sunday in August we brought the jazz directly to you! Each band released a pre-recorded podcast on Facebook Live. Watch below as these amazing performers share stories. We encourage you to tune in to listen, sing along, and dance!

Jenna Marie Pinard

Advocats Big Band

Toronto All-Star Big Band

Martin Loomer’s Orange Devils

Supported by: 

Sunday Serenades History

Big Band Exchange 2020 (in lieu of Sunday Serenades)

Due to COVID-19, NYA presented Big Band Exchange in lieu of Sunday Serenades. Big Band Exchange is a online program celebrating music and conversation. Four bands presented video podcasts to share and exchange memories and stories about jazz, music and dancing! Attendees tuned-in live on Facebook. 

Dates: August 9, 16, 23, 30
Bands: Advocats Big Band, Jenna Marie Pinard Ensemble, Martin Loomer’s Orange Devils, and Toronto All-Star Big Band.

Video Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxStEv1SiMs&list=PLzyFf1zw4thv5Ie_9wO1AoBaBFa9JCcu0

Funded by: Government of Canada

 

Sunday Serenades 2019

Dates: July 7, 14, 21, 28, 2019
Bands: Metro Big Band, Toronto All Star Big Band, Swing Shift Big Band, Starlight Orchestra 

Partnering Sponsor: TO Live
Community Partner: North York Seniors Centre
Funded by: Government of Canada

Sunday Serenades 2018

Dates: July 8, 15, 22, 29, 2018
Bands: George Lake Big Band, GTA Swing Band, Starlight Orchestra, Metro Big Band

Partnering Sponsor: Toronto Centre for the Arts
Supporting Sponsor: Delmanor
Community Partner: North York Seniors Centre

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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

Contact us 

North York Arts
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

info@northyorkarts.org

647-477-6059

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Join Our Network

Giving Tuesday: The Animation Project Online Premiere

Giving Tuesday: The Animation Project Online Premiere

The Animation Project Online Premiere

A LIVE Giving Tuesday event!

About the Program 

North York Arts and the Toronto Animated Image Society are excited to present The Animation Project Online Premiere! Tune in on December 1st to hear from participants and see their final projects.

This is an exciting opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at one of our programs that pivoted online in March. This event is also in the spirit of Giving Tuesday – we encourage you to donate to support our programs!

The Animation Project was a 12-week digital animation course for participants 55+ that began in the spring.  Not only were participants taught animation and design techniques, but they had the opportunity to share and collaborate with one another through meaningful storytelling and discussions.

This film is a final reflection piece to capture the creative process and self-expression journey.

Date: December 1st

Time: 6pm

Tune in on Youtube!
Donate Today!

Can’t make it at 6pm? Join TAIS on their YouTube channel at 8pm! CLICK HERE

Funded By:

Program Partner:

Program Part of: 

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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

Contact us 

North York Arts
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

info@northyorkarts.org

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Join Our Network

The Space Between (Nuit Blanche 2020)

The Space Between (Nuit Blanche 2020)

The Space Between 

Part of Nuit Blache 2020

“It had never before occurred to me that I too could cease to exist, and now a part of me feared being forgotten. How easy it would be to forget an invisible person.”

Date:  October 3, 2020

7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Tune in: 
http://thespacebetweenproject.com/stories

North York Arts is excited to be participating in Nuit Blanche 2020! We’ve partnered with Cinematoscape, an award-winning local digital media company, to showcase The Space Between.

The Space Between, an award-winning play written by Simeon Taole, explores the theme of distance – physical, emotional, and cultural. A young boy in South Africa longs to reunite with his childhood sweetheart in Canada before the space between them separates them forever.

In 2016, Cinematoscape and North York Arts co-presented The Space Between in Toronto. Cinematoscape conducted interviews, in both Canada and South Africa, inviting people to share their experience of the space between. Today, we share these voices and new stories as part of a continued exploration of the space between, a theme with even greater resonance in 2020. Ultimately, the presentation showcases our shared humanity, and the resilience and hope within us all.

Tune in on October 3rd at 7:00 pm  as they meditate on distance and connection, and how people bridge the space between, pre and post pandemic. Through a collection of shared stories, they explore the ways people have experienced this space.

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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

Contact us 

North York Arts
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

info@northyorkarts.org

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Join Our Network

Toronto Mycelial Network

Toronto Mycelial Network

Toronto Mycelial Network

#InvisibleNetworkTO

An art project to participate in at home
Follow along here: @torontomycelialnetwork

The Toronto Mycelial Network is a city-wide art project to remind us that while we are physically distant – we remain connected as individuals, as communities, and as a city!

We invite all Torontonians to spend this time making any interpretation of a mushroom and post it on social media using the hashtag #InvisibleNetworkTO and tagging @torontomycelialnetwork.

Why a mushroom? Mushrooms can be a great distance apart but are connected to the same invisible network. So, like a mushroom, let’s connect while we remain physically apart!

See below for more information on the Mycelial Network and how to participate. 

HOW TO PARTICIPATE:

 

  1. Make a mushroom of any size, shape, or dimension! If you want, document your process!
  2. Post on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter with the hashtag #InvisibleNetworkTO and tag @torontomycelialnetwork
  3. Follow @torontomycelialnetwork to watch the invisible network grow!
  4. Sign up for our NYA Newsletter to be notified about more  Toronto Mycelial Network-related news.
What is a Mycelial Network?

“Underneath the soil a vast and interconnected network of life that links the trees and other plants through their root system. This network is made up of fungi (mushrooms) with massive and far-reaching threads called Mycelium” 

Want to learn more? Check out the 3 minute video:

How should I make my mushroom?

Mushrooms can be made from anything you’d like! It can be made from felt, papier-mache, origami or whatever art supplies (or non-art supplies!) you find in your cupboards. This is a chance to channel your creativity!

How do I share my mushroom?

Share your mushrooms on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter with the hashtag #InvisibleNetworkTO
and tag @torontomycelialnetwork It’s that simple!

Don’t have social media? Send your mushroom by email to info@northyorkarts.org – please include your name.

Check out the NYA staff creations! 

The Toronto Mycelial Network was created and initiated by East End Arts, and has been supported by our family of LASOs to expand and grow the network to all corners of Toronto! Members from any community in the city of Toronto and beyond are invited to join all of us in making a mushroom at home, and being connected in times of social distancing. the other LASOs: North York Arts, Arts Etobicoke, Lakeshore Arts, Scarborough Arts and Urban Arts.

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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

Contact us 

North York Arts
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

info@northyorkarts.org

Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Join Our Network

Uptown Kid Lit

Uptown Kid Lit

Uptown KidLit

Uptown KidLit is a new FREE children’s literary festival in North York for kids aged 12 and under, offering comic drawing and storytelling activities, kidlit and comic exhibitors, and feature presentations by top comic and literary artists!

Featuring George O’Connor, Deborah Kerbel, Richard Scrimger, Britt Wilson, Ted Staunton, Lesley Livingston, Kean Soo, Lis Xu, John Martz, Tory Woollcott, Chad Solomon, Anoosha Syed, Brian McLaughlan, Hilary Leung, and many more!

Date: Saturday, Sept 28th

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Time: 9:30am – 4:00pm

Address: North York Central Library 5120 Yonge Street, North York

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Email: info@northyorkarts.org

Price: Free

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About Us

North York Arts (NYA)  collaborates with artists, arts organizations, and partners to develop, strengthen, and promote cultural programming and initiatives for North York communities

 Contact us 

North York Arts
(Toronto Centre for the Arts)
5040 Yonge St.
Toronto, ON, M2N 6R8

(416) 733-9388

info@northyorkarts.org
Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

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