On May 7, 2025 (Wednesday), Our Lady of Peace Catholic School hosted an Art Exhibition showcasing the art creations of students from Kindergarten to Grade 8. Through the process of creating and curating a collective art experience, students applied their different perspectives and artistic skills alongside artists that connected them to personal stories, diverse communities, issues of the world, and the environment.
There was a variety of overarching perspectives, mediums, themes, and skills across the curriculum. Environmental education, Indigenous education, social-emotional learning, critical literacy, and social justice education was incorporated and expressed through the arts.
A diverse group of artists were invited to work with the students and facilitate art workshops, while fostering a relationship to visual storytelling. They shared their stories, experiences, craft, and techniques to inspire the students through this process.
Thank you to Quentin Commanda (Anishnaabe), Diane Montreuil (Métis Algonquin), Michelle Frederick (Trinidad & Tobago) , Shawni Commanda (Anishinaabe and Grenadian), Sophia Biteznik and Jason Donio (Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek), Sarvenaz Rayati (Iranian), Apanaki Temitayo (West African), Nick Biagini, & Lisa Di Battista.
Artist Apanaki described the event as:
The art? Loud, Proud, Healing.
The kids? Stars in the making.
The vibe? Unforgettable.
We are grateful to the Toronto Catholic District School Board's (TCDSB) Indigenous Education Department, Sonya Charal (Indigenous Resource Teacher), and the Our Lady of Peace Catholic School Parent Council (CSPC) for their allyship, support and financial contributions to this school initiative.
