APRIL ART BEAT
by Sabrina Boyer, Programs & Education Manager
April was a vibrant and full month at the Art Gallery of Mississauga, as several of our grant-funded programs came to a meaningful close, and we celebrated the incredible work of our community.
Threads of Connection wrapped up its final sessions in March and culminated in a beautiful public showcase held in the Mississauga Civic Centre Great Hall from April 15 to 18, with a closing reception on April 18. Participants gathered alongside family and friends to celebrate their textile collage works, developed over two six-week sessions in partnership with Evergreen Retirement Community. The exhibition was a powerful reflection of connection, storytelling, and shared experience. This program was generously supported by the New Horizons for Seniors Program, funded by the Government of Canada.
Pollinating the Art Hive, supported by the Hazel McCallion Arts, Culture and Heritage Fund, also approached its final chapter this month with two dynamic Art Hive sessions. One was held at Creditvale Mills Community Wellness Hub in celebration of World Art Day, and another at the Malton Youth Hub. Both sessions saw enthusiastic participation from youth and families, and created welcoming spaces for creativity, reflection, and community care. These gatherings have already opened the door for continued collaboration and future programming in these communities.
We also hosted two exhibition-linked programs in connection with Ninaivu, an exhibition by Whyishnave Suthagar. Artist and facilitator Esther Leelavathy led a Kolam workshop in which participants created their own unique designs inspired by the geometric Kolams featured in the exhibition. The workshop invited participants to engage with pattern, tradition, and personal expression in a hands-on way.
Whyishnave Suthagar also facilitated a letter-writing workshop that offered space for reflection on themes of remembrance, migration, home, and lived experience. Participants responded with thoughtful, deeply personal letters, and the session included a rich discussion in which the artist shared insights into her practice and process.
Our Art of Yoga series continues to grow, with two sold-out sessions in April. We are looking forward to the upcoming sessions on May 6 and May 17, as well as a Restorative Yoga session with Pam on June 10. Another session with Aman is also planned for June. All yoga sessions can be booked through Eventbrite.
As we move into May, we carry forward the energy of this past month, grounded in community, creativity, and care.
