GRANTS IN ACTION: Southampton Arts

A program participant of the "In My Community - A Younger Perspective" project works on her artwork, depicting her feelings on what community means to her.

Community Foundation took a trip to Saugeen Shores during their “On the Road Again” show of summer 2023 to check out programming at Southampton Arts. This non-profit, located in the heart of downtown Southampton, supports the Grey Bruce region by operating an art school for children and adults of all skill levels and representing talented artists. Through the 2022 ‘Kids Can Play’ grant initiative from the Community Foundation, Southampton Arts created a new project, titled: In My Community – A Younger Perspective.

The project engaged students of all ages from Saugeen Shores and Saugeen 29 First Nations to promote reflection on their community and how they fit into it. Linda Spruce, Communications and Fund Development Manager at Southampton Arts says, “The project is also intended to forge relationships between the region's younger members and local services, such as the art gallery and school, the police and the library.”

Students were provided with canvases, paint, brushes, and other art supplies where they were encouraged to express their feelings about their community through art. These completed and framed works of art are now displayed throughout Saugeen Shores at Saugeen Shores Police Services, Southampton Arts Centre and the Southampton Public Library. “Displaying all submitted art in public spaces will give participants a sense of achievement and accomplishment” says Spruce. “Public viewing of the installation will also engage a broader audience and allow viewers to appreciate a younger perspective on the community”.

If you wish to support arts and culture initiatives such as this in Grey Bruce, please visit www.communityfoundationgreybruce.com/donate/