In an inspiring partnership aimed at nurturing community engagement, Newark Neighbours Food Bank and Thrift Store have collaborated with the Niagara Pumphouse Art Centre for an uplifting art installation. Through this collaboration, children and youth participating in the summer art camp at the community’s art hub actively contributed to the enhancement of a vacant wall within the recently renovated Newark Neighbours Food Bank.
Over the course of the six weeks, six panels were created as part of the art camp experience. The core of the project revolves around the theme, ‘View into the Pantry.’ Every camper was provided with the opportunity to contribute. While older campers breathed life into pantry shelves with their artistic talents, younger participants crafted collage elements that depict pantry items, adding an extra layer of depth to the artwork. The outcome was inviting pieces that exude comfort, hoping to draw families into the space with its welcoming and cheerful ambiance.
Throughout the creation of these exceptional artworks, instructors and counselors were engaging campers in discussions regarding the role of art in cultivating a sense of community. By instructing art as a collaborative endeavor, they were nurturing a profound comprehension of how shared creative efforts can fortify the bonds within a community.
Following weeks of dedication and artistic exploration, the artworks will be installed on a large wall in the new Newark Neighbours Food Bank in September. Cindy Grant, Board Chair and Manager of the Food Bank stated, “We are so pleased to partner with the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre and their Summer Art Camp in the creation of this wonderful mural. One of our objectives in our new Food Bank is to create a welcoming and supportive space for our clients and their families. This mural will be a key contribution to this goal.”
Grant adds, “Supporters from across our community will be able to view this installation at our Grand Opening Celebration on September 27th.”
About Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre is the art hub that connects our community by providing art for all. Located on the banks of the Niagara River in a heritage building that formerly supplied water to Niagara-on-the-Lake (hence our name); the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre offers visual arts programs, exhibitions and events. We give back to the community by providing access to the arts for those in need.
