CONNECT is an art show and interactive arts workshop event to be held during February and March 2010. A joint collaboration between The Gathering Place Community Centre and Coast Mental Health, it showcases works done by local residents in the area. Scroll down  to see some of the art from the upcoming show.

Sculpture by Benjamin Mageau

“I am excited about combining artists and art from people who use social services in the Downtown South with residents, small business employees and others connected to the Downtown South of Vancouver,” says Jeanne Krabbendam, artist and initiator of the show.

Drawing by Dudem Aneke

“This show will provide a medium to challenge barriers, stereotypes and preconceived ideas about people who use social services and I believe that participants receive satisfaction from creating something from nothing. Everyone learns from each other,” says Krabbendam.

Painting by Sourour Aabdollahi

Ellen has been a member of Coast’s Mental Health Resource Centre and has participated in past Art Shows. She says that “painting gives a human being a sense of self-confidence and it comes, for me, from the bottom of my guts. It is thrilling, even if I have one piece in the show.”

Painting by Laura Lee Walker

“Our goal is to have an art show which showcases the art work of some the area's most vulnerable alongside more established artists who live or work in the community,” says Jo-Ann Stevens, Manager of The Gathering Place.

Painting by Susan Johnston

“We want to level the playing field and hold an art show which bridges the diversity of the neighbourhood and brings people closer together,” says Stevens.

Photograph by Rod Preston

“The Art Show is a way for people and the artists to see the gifts of individuals who have a mental illness and Coast is pleased to participate in this outreach to the public and everyone in the community,” says Darrell Burnham, Executive Director of Coast Mental Health.

Drawing by John Fredericks

The Gathering Place Community Centre celebrates and serves the diverse community of Vancouver’s downtown south. The Centre provides accessible and engaging programs and services for everyone, including the most vulnerable.

Painting by Mina Hamidy

Coast Mental Health is a non-profit organization established in 1972 that improves the lives of people with a mental illness through practical support including housing, jobs, rehabilitative social and recreational opportunities, food, clothing, and basic life skills training. Coast currently provides supportive housing to over 700 people in 40 different homes and apartments in Metro Vancouver. By 2010 Coast will provide housing to over 1,000 individuals.

Sculpture by Fran Smith

This Art Show is a way for people and the artists to see the gifts of individuals who have a mental illness.

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