Get Support

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 Spring Artist in Residence

Jamie Lynn Bowen is a Calgary based fibre and textile artist who is also passionate about the environment. She melds these two passions together by focusing on natural and local materials to create her art. Focusing on materials such as wool, cotton and natural dyes that she grows, forages or sources sustainably she creates wearable art as well as fun and functional creations.

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

-Carya AiR Participant

Upcoming AiR Workshops (for ages 3+)

Painting with Natural Pigments

Let’s explore where colour comes from in nature! In this workshop, artist-in-residence Jamie will start with a story about where colour comes from. Then, as a class, we will create one pigment to see how watercolours are created, and then paint using nature-made watercolours.  

When: Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Time: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE

For more information or to register, email AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca.

Kids Weaving

Explore how we create cloth while making a woven wall hanging. In this workshop, artist-in-residence Jamie will read a fun story about how cloth is made, and then participants will have the opportunity to try weaving their own cloth hanging.

When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Time: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE

For more information or to register, email AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca.

Upcoming AiR Workshops (adults 18+)

Bundle Dye

Join us for an introduction to natural dying, and learn how to use flowers, trees, and even bugs to dye a reusable bag naturally.

When: Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE

Drop-in’s are welcome, however, space is limited. For more information, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca.

Visible Mending

Learn how to give your clothing a second life by turning holes and stains into a work of art. You can practice on samples or bring something from home that needs mending.

When: Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE

Drop-in’s are welcome, however, space is limited. For more information, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca.

Needle Felting Gnomes

Learn the basics of needle felting and create a sweet felt gnome for Spring! No experience is needed.

When: Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE

Drop-in’s are welcome, however, space is limited. For more information, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca.