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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 Rachelle Ymay Skilling as our Artist in Residence at Village Commons! Rachelle (she/her) is a Calgary-based visual artist whose contemporary, geometric art explores mothering-caregiving in autobiographical comics and visual art. 

Rachelle is a Graduate of Alberta University of the Arts. She has exhibited at the Art Gallery of Alberta, GM Gallery, and the Lebel Gallery. Her Comics and zines have been published by Mutha Magazine, Demeter Press, and Inservice Comics. Rachelle enjoys sharing her passion for the arts by teaching workshops focused on autobiographical comics. 

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!

Your Stories is a four-week series of comic drawing workshops. Each week, Rachelle will guide you through your own life experience and turn it into a beloved piece of work as a part of our ‘Your Story’ comic. 

‘Your Stories’ Workshop Series – November

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, November 4 – 27, 2025*

*No session on Tuesday, November 11

Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Location: Village Commons (610 8 Ave SE)

To register, email NickolasB@CaryaCalgary.ca

‘Your Stories’ Workshop Series – December

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, December 2 – 18, 2025

Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Location: Village Commons (610 8 Ave SE)

To register, email NickolasB@CaryaCalgary.ca