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Art and Creativity

Art brings people together, weaving connections among individuals, communities, and cultures.

Acting as a universal language, art has the power to unite diverse voices, evoke empathy, and spark conversations.

When we share creative experiences, we discover similarities that deepen our understanding of one another, creating stronger connections. At Carya’s Village Commons, we offer a diverse range of art-based programming, including drop-in sessions, community-led workshops, and artist-in-residence programs, providing opportunities for meaningful engagement and expression.

Artist In Residence (AiR) Program

Artist in Residence programs support and encourage the development of art and culture in Calgary.  They provide an inspiring environment for both artists and participants where new connections and a sense of belonging can be formed.  In partnership with Calgary Allied Arts Foundation (CAAF), Carya’s Artist in Residence (AiR) program is one of many programs offered at Village Commons that provides Calgarians with opportunities to partake in various art programs. The residency program was developed to offer studio space and teaching opportunities to emerging artists in 3-month durations.

Carya’s Fall Artist in Residence

This Fall, we are thrilled to welcome Cece Marin as our Artist in Residence at Village Commons! Cece (she/her) is a second-generation German-Canadian multidisciplinary artist based in Calgary/Moh’kinsstis.

She explores colour, texture, and play through fibre art, clay, and natural colour making. Working in education, Cece brings her love of curiosity, imagination, and hands-on creativity into every moment she shares with her students as they explore and learn together.  

It was a wonderful experience; I learned a lot about myself and grew as an artist and a human

-Carya AiR Participant

Get Creative with Our Artist-in-Residence!

Check out the upcoming workshop dates below!

Join us in the art studio and enter fall with some hands-on fibre-inspired projects! These drop-in sessions are perfect for those who want to try our arts programs or those who just want more time in the studio. There will be a variety of suggested projects and guidance and support from our local artist in residence. Go beyond knitting with needle felt and embroidery, or leave your mark with printmaking and clay explorations.

Art Studio Drop-In with Cece Marin

When: Tuesdays, September 9, 16, 23

Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Location: Village Commons (610 8 Ave SE)

Learn to make your own paper from recycled materials, adding natural textures and pressed botanicals to create beautiful artworks. This workshop blends science, nature, and creativity as we experiment with light, texture, and form. A perfect mix of curiosity and craft for nature lovers, makers, and creative explorers.

Papermaking Workshop (18+)

When: Friday, September 5

Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Location: Village Commons (610 8 Ave SE)

Dive into the tactile world of wet felting! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to layer and blend wool fibers using soap, water, and friction to create soft, textured artworks. Whether you’re inspired by landscapes or simply love playing with colour, you’ll be guided through techniques to craft your own felted piece, realistic or abstract. No experience needed, just a willingness to explore and experiment!

Wet Felting: Landscapes and Abstraction (18+)

When: Friday, September 12

Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Location: Village Commons (610 8 Ave SE)

Add a personal touch to your projects through the art of embroidery! This workshop introduces basic stitches and playful techniques you can use to embellish clothing, refresh textiles, or even stitch onto unexpected surfaces like old photographs or paper. Bring a piece to work on or start something new, it’s all about using needle and thread to spark creativity in fun, modern ways.

Creative Embroidery: Stitching with Style (18+)

When: Friday, September 19

Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Location: Village Commons (610 8 Ave SE)

Join nature-based artist Cece Marin for a creative and restorative workshop that invites you to breathe new life into old or unfinished artwork. Through gentle guidance and a focus on transformation, participants will explore ways to deconstruct, weave, and rework past pieces into meaningful new creations. Rooted in nature and renewal, this hands-on session is perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with their creative process and turn “mistakes” into beauty

Reimagining your Art (18+)

When: Friday, September 26

Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Location: Village Commons (610 8 Ave SE)