Programs
The centre aims to eliminate barriers to creative education. We collaborate with local artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and community partners to offer high calibre creative learning programs.
“I love these programs and all the types of art I learned. I never saw myself doing this, so it made me happy to be able to try all so many different things. It makes me happy to see people who understand me. When I come back, I hope to volunteer and help you make these programs even better!”
—Azeezat, Stop-Motion, Collage, Jewelry Making, BIPOC Drop In
Registration for Spring
Spring 2024 Programs
Monday, 4 to 6 PM
- The Secret Lives of Colour with Diana
- In this program, we will work through the colour spectrum using watercolour, acrylic paint, screen printings and natural dyes, to mix, make and colour your own dynamic story.
- Fashion Identity with NSCAD Art Factory
- Learn how to hack fabric and alter clothing to make unique pieces that express important aspects of their identity: design and sew, add new flare, tailor existing clothing and more!
Monday, 6 to 8 PM
- BIPOC Drop in
- Join our diverse group of uniquely talented youth this term. We'll make arts and crafts, watch movies, have fun and spirited debates, and chillax with our customized game nights! This program is open to Black, Indigenous, and Youth of Colour.
Tuesday, 4 to 6 PM
- Art Book Binding with Seb
- Learn the foundations of bookbinding with our current artist in residence, P. Doak. You'll try page stitching and binding, creating book covers and designs; all structured around the weekly themes.
- Create Like a Boss with Alex
- Explore soft and hard skills needed to gain employment and learn from professionals working in creative industries. This program emphasizes how creativity is a catalyst in developing skills needed for employment and leadership.
Wednesday, 4 to 6 PM
- Photography with Emma
- Learn to tell your visual story through the basics of photography. Explore different kinds of analog and digital photography, like pinhole cameras, lumen and cyanotype printing, phone/tablet and SLR cameras.
- Music Video Making with Keke Beatz
- Learn the history of music videos and have hands-on instruction in video production, editing, and storytelling techniques, tailored specifically to the creation of music videos. Participants will collaborate to bring their creative visions to life!
Thursday, 4 to 6 PM
- Art Chats with Cortney
- Learn to wield your words like paintbrushes and master the art of discussing your art and the work of others! You can expect creative prompts, drawing exercises, and field trips to galleries and museums.
- Comics and Graphic Novels with James
- Explore character and story development through illustration and comic formats. We'll explore all the different forms of comics and graphic novels take, and practice various drawing and writing techniques.
Friday, 4 to 6 PM
- GSA Drop In (Queer Arts)
- GSA: Queer Arts carves out space for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and their allies to explore issues related to gender and sexuality. We will explore queer artists, movements, and more, then emanate them in facilitated art activities. Think protest art, poetry, zines, painting, collage and more!
Program Philosophy
The MacPhee Centre, inspired by Bill Stickland's "Manchester Bidwell Model," aims to transform youth through quality resources and creative mentorship
By taking youth out of their usual environments, the centre aims to eliminate barriers to creative education. We collaborate with local artists, entrepreneurs, and community partners, to offer high-calibre creative learning programs, showcasing career opportunities and fostering a love for lifelong learning.
“My favourite part about winter programs was jewelry making. Being inspired and having an idea I was excited about making was a great feeling.”
—Dhimahi, Jewelry Making
Safety
Every one deserves to feel safe in their community. The youth, facilitators, and staff collaborate each term to create a set of “standards” that we all aim to follow.
Respect
A huge pillar of our programs is respect: for the self, for one another, and the space. Every individual has a different set of "rules" for themselves. We aim to understand and meet people where they are.
Try
Trying new things is an important part of creating and enjoying art; whether it's starting a new project or making a new friend. We highly encourage everyone to try first, and then pass if they want to.