Berry Crafty Bees: Fostering Inclusive Art Experiences in Edmonton

The Cause

The idea behind Berry Crafty Bees is to create an inclusive and accessible art program that empowers individuals of all abilities to explore their creativity in a supportive, community-driven environment. The program is designed to offer small group art classes in Edmonton, Alberta, with a focus on providing opportunities for marginalized, neurodivergent, and disabled participants.

At its core, Berry Crafty Bees recognizes the barriers that exist for people with disabilities, emerging artists, and those from marginalized communities when accessing artistic spaces and opportunities. Our mission is to break down those barriers by offering a welcoming, accessible space where creativity flourishes, regardless of skill level or background.

The classes will be held in small groups (with a maximum of 10 participants) to ensure individual attention and a personalized experience for each participant. The space will be equipped with accessible and sensory-friendly furniture, ensuring that everyone, including those with physical disabilities and sensory sensitivities, can comfortably engage in art-making.

In addition to fostering a safe and supportive space for participants, Berry Crafty Bees will offer teaching opportunities to emerging artists, especially those from neurodivergent and disabled communities. These artists will be able to gain valuable professional experience by leading workshops and teaching classes, helping them build their resumes and contribute to the local art scene.

The program will offer a variety of classes, from basic drawing and painting to specialized workshops like papermaking and printmaking. By offering a broad range of creative opportunities, Berry Crafty Bees ensures that there is something for everyone, encouraging participants to explore new techniques and ideas.

Ultimately, the goal of Berry Crafty Bees is to create a lasting, positive impact on the Edmonton art community by promoting inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in the arts. With the support of community members and funding from organizations like the Field Law Community Fund, we will be able to sustain and grow the program, ensuring that more people can benefit from the power of creative expression in an inclusive space.

By offering art classes that are not only accessible but also designed with the needs of marginalized and neurodivergent individuals in mind, Berry Crafty Bees seeks to redefine what it means to be a community-centered art space, where everyone

Who Will it Benefit?

Berry Crafty Bees will benefit a wide range of individuals, with a special focus on those who are often marginalized or underserved in traditional art spaces:

Disabled, Neurodivergent, and Marginalized Individuals: Participants from these communities will have access to accessible and inclusive art classes, allowing them to express their creativity in a supportive environment tailored to their needs. Specialized accommodations, such as sensory-friendly spaces and personalized support, ensure that everyone can participate comfortably without feeling overwhelmed.

Emerging Artists: Artists who are just starting out, particularly those with disabilities or neurodivergence, will gain valuable experience teaching workshops and leading classes. This provides them with professional development opportunities, builds their confidence, and enhances their portfolios in a safe and inclusive setting.

Neurodivergent and Disabled Volunteers: Volunteers from these communities will be given priority, creating opportunities for them to gain professional experience in a welcoming environment. By volunteering with Berry Crafty Bees, they can develop practical skills in an art setting, contributing to their personal and career growth.

Class Participants: All participants will benefit from personalized support, small class sizes, and individualized attention. The variety of workshops and sensory accommodations ensures that everyone can engage meaningfully with the art, regardless of their abilities or background.

Berry Crafty Bees is designed to uplift those who often face barriers to participation, creating a safe, empowering space where all individuals can explore their creativity and build their professional experience.