DTES Arts Engagement Project
“Interacting with the resilient and determined women of the Downtown Eastside, listening to their narratives of perseverance, was profoundly enriching and shaped my perspectives in ways I had never anticipated.”
Taylor was a recipient of the Centre for Community Engaged Learning’s Connect to Community Grant in the 2022-23 school year.
Project Description
Over a span of six months, the Downtown Eastside Art Engagement Project curated and hosted 18 enriching arts and crafts workshops at various community hubs. These workshops offered a diverse array of activities, from UV resin jewelry crafting and candle making to terrarium design and more. The goal was clear: to provide opportunities for women in the area to explore their creativity and find solace in art.
The Downtown Eastside Art Engagement Project is just one example of the impactful work being done through community-engaged learning. By combining art, empathy, and innovation, this project has made a difference in the lives of underserved women in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, demonstrating the transformative potential of genuine community engagement.
Community Partner
The Art Engagement Project encompassed 18 creative arts and crafts workshops over a six-month period, conducted at Vancouver Coastal Health’s Womxn’s Nights, at the Pender Community Health Centre, the Heatley Clinic, and the Downtown Community Health Centre. These workshops covered a range of activities such as terrarium making, candle making, UV resin jewelry crafting, tie-die, painting, and pin making. The impact of these workshops on the women attending Womxn’s Nights was profound; fostering joy and a stronger sense of community. The project also involved UBC volunteers, creating a unique opportunity for them to connect with and learn from a traditionally underserved group in our society.
Lessons Learned
Throughout the project, several key insights emerged. The transformative power of community engagement was evident in the tangible impact the workshops had on the lives of the women. The importance of adaptability and innovative problem-solving became clear as challenges arose, requiring quick thinking and a flexible approach.
“The journey underscored that while the path of community service is rewarding, it also necessitates continuous learning and adaptability,” Taylor notes.
Project Outcomes
“Significant strengths emerged during the project. Valuable insights were gained into project management, community engagement, and the therapeutic potential of art in mental health support. Challenges, including ensuring workshop accessibility and managing volunteers effectively, were met with adaptability and resolve.
Within the DTES community, resilience and solidarity among women highlighted the importance of creating inclusive spaces for healing and
artistic expression. The project also led to the establishment of the Downtown Eastside Arts and Crafts Society, empowered by the connections formed and lessons learned.”
– The Art Engagement Project: Empowering the Downtown Eastside Community Through Creativity by Taylor Bootsma
Advice for Future Applicants
For students considering applying for a CCEL Grant, Taylor offers some valuable advice:
Begin with passion: Start with a genuine introspection about the community or cause you’re passionate about. Authenticity resonates and enhances the impact of your project.
Research thoroughly: Understand the goals and criteria of the CCEL Grant to tailor your proposal effectively.
Collaborate and seek partnerships: Diverse perspectives can enrich your project’s design and execution.
Be adaptable: The journey of implementing a community project is a learning experience; remain open to feedback and growth.
Information about CCEL Grants
If you are a student interested in leading your own UBC CCEL project, you can learn more about the application process here. Year round advising for grant projects and applications are available via Zoom or in-person at our office on the UBC Vancouver office from Monday to Friday. For more information about year round advising, please email us at community.learning@ubc.ca to book an appointment.