REPORT: Transforming Communities Through the Arts

The Toronto Arts Foundation, in partnership with OCAD University, York University and community arts pioneer ArtStarts, conducted a pilot project from 2011 to 2013 to examine the importance of art in neighbourhoods.

TAf Report

SUMMARY & FULL REPORT AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD ON WEBSITE.

Toronto’s neighbourhoods are filled with art-making – from murals to brass bands, from hip hop artists to community choirs, from fabric artists to film makers – our city is alive with creativity. Access to these diverse art practices begins with knowing what resources are in your community. Find art spaces and initiatives in Malvern, St James Town and Weston Mount Dennis on this website.

The Toronto Arts Foundation, in partnership with OCAD University, York University and community arts pioneer ArtStarts, conducted a pilot project from 2011 to 2013 to examine the importance of art in neighbourhoods. The study was funded by a SSHRC Partnership Development Grant.

Working with community organizations and community liaison workers, the research team conducted focus groups, interviews and surveys with over 200 residents, artists and arts groups working and living in the three communities. The field work focused on the diversity of arts engagement, barriers to arts participation, current neighbourhood assets and resources, and the need to improve access to arts experiences for residents.