Shared by Janis Timm-Bottos and Rachel Chainey of Concordia University Montreal.
The Art Hives Network promotes arts-based social inclusion. The Art Hives How-to-Guide was created to address a need to respond creatively to multifaceted issues in communities and globally. Decades of practice research, ongoing observation and adaptation, and experimentation have all contributed to the development of the Art Hives model and methodology.
This guide includes an introduction and theory around art hives, how to get started, methods, fundraising, and grant writing resources. Art Hives can be used to promote wellness and draw engagement for a variety of student spaces on campus.
“I believe Art Hives are much more than a place to make art in the company of others. It is a place that breaks socio-economic and cultural barriers. It is a place that offers creative expression in a safe space, but also in a way that helps people discover who they are and what they are feeling. This transcends into our overall attitude and perception of our surrounding community and self. This has a ripple effect. It offers a different way to nurture friendship and it offers a community that cares. It is a space where you can mobilize around an idea then march in the streets, then come back. It is a space that demands you to respect yourself so you can keep the space safe for others.” – Joanna Bateman, 2015