WHAT WE DO

OUR MISSION IS ART DIPLOMACY

Simply put, we co-create safe spaces and creative stages where Indigenous youth can thrive.

Through art-based programming, we open pathways of opportunity for First Nations, Métis, Innu and Inuit youth to access creativity and express themselves in healthy ways. In doing so, we aim to create empathy and inspire actions that serve their rights, interests and futures.

WE LISTEN ACTIVELY, ALWAYS.

We respond to the unique needs of each community with workshops and tools to bring art-based programs to life including music, visual, recording and performance art.

Due to the legacy of colonialism and with so many isolated communities lacking basic human needs, they serve an even deeper purpose as safe spaces for Indigenous youth to access support and collaborate with artists, educators, mentors and each other.

“I love music because it helps me escape from my anxiety.”

— Youth Participant

OUR HOST COMMUNITIES

  • Attawapiskat, First Nation

    Attawapiskat, ON

    Located near the James Bay Coast in northeastern Ontario, this Cree community is accessible only by plane, boat or the winter roads. For over 15 years, we’ve been visiting Attawapiskat twice a year. We provide music and visual arts programming.

  • Fort Albany

    Fort Albany, ON

    This Cree community is only a short plane ride away from Attawapiskat. Artscan Circle sends artists twice a year to mentor youth in songwriting, singing, recording, filming, and editing to create Music Videos.

  • Pikangikum First Nation

    Pikangikum, ON

    Located in northwestern Ontario, Pikangikum is accessible only by plane, boat or the winter roads. For almost 20 years, Artscan Circle has been visiting this Objibwe community twice a year. In 2020, we launched our successful Piano and Keyboard Program, which runs throughout the school year.

  • Chateh, AB

    Chateh, AB

    We’ve been collaborating with the Dene Tha First Nation community since the Pandemic in 2020. Artscan Circle provides weekly musical lessons via Zoom with certified instructors and a week-long Music Workshop in December.

  • Kuujjuaq, QC

    Kuujjuaq, QC

    This Inuit community is located in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec. Artscan Circle recently partnered with them and will be sending instruments and musicians in the Winter of 2024 to complement their Music Program.

“[We] never give up never, ever. I don't care whatever happens, we just won't stop… part of the mandate is that we do not abandon these relationships.”

— Mike Stevens, Artscan Circle Founder

OUR PROGRAMS

  • During the pandemic, ArtsCan Circle created an online platform called #ArtsCanConnects, to connect and inspire youth in remote communities with artists across the North, Canada and beyond. To date, we’ve hosted over 50 virtual workshops and events with some of North America’s most exciting artists and engaged 5,000 Indigenous youth living in remote, northern communities.

    You can watch the #ArtsCanConnects vidoes here.

  • The visual arts five-day workshop consists of art forms such as beading, painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, photography, design and crafts. Artist tools and refreshments are provided.

  • Youth have an opportunity to learn how to create a music video via song writing, singing, recording, filming, editing and teamwork. Artistic tools, refreshments and meals are provided.

  • Looking to learn piano, keyboard, guitar, singing, violin, flute, clarinet, drums, ukulele and more? Artscan Circle provides five-day workshops and follow-up Zoom lessons with mentors.

    Artistic tools, instruments and refreshments are provided.

  • Indigenous youth in remote communities have little to no access to musical instruments. When they receive an instrument of their very own, it can be life-changing. We accept new and lightly used keyboards, guitars, violins, drums, amplifiers, cables, music books, computer equipment, musical scores and sheet music.