For every box purchased Artshine plans to donate one lesson to a child who would otherwise not have access to these types of opportunities.

Originally poster on Kitchener Today  By: Natasha McKenty Jun 12, 2019 1:35 PM 

 

‘Artshine in a Box’ is an art subscription filled with hand-picked art supplies - offered in English and French. For every box purchased Artshine plans to donate one lesson to a child who would otherwise not have access to these types of opportunities.

Founder of Artshine and Arts4All, Paul Field, formerly a social worker working with at-risk youth, says this inspired him to want to provide kids with a “healthy outlet to express their emotions, build self-confidence, and cope with the adversities that life may throw their way.”

Artshine does not rely on government funding for any of their programming. Instead, it puts profits from the paid programs back into the community in the form of scholarships and subsidized arts programs - offering access to Artshine's programming for those living with disabilities, seniors’ communities, as well as underprivileged and at-risk youth.

Megan Fisher has been an Artshine instructor from the beginning and says teaching at-risk teens is her passion. “Through the classes, I teach, I have met so many creative and bright young people. Knowing that when you enroll, or purchase for your child, that someone within your community benefits from your kindness; I think is huge.”

Field’s vision was to create communities where participation in the arts is not limited by income, ability or personal circumstances. He cites his favourite quote as his inspiration, “when you have more than you need, build a longer table not a higher fence.”

Thousands of children, across Ontario, have participated in Artshine’s mobile programs. Their feedback contributed to the creation of ‘Artshine in a box.’ The launch of this new monthly subscription service means children all over Canada will now have access to Artshine’s enriching art lessons.

Lessons mirror the elementary school curriculum, “teaching students about the creative process, critical analysis, and the principles and elements of design. As they practice self-expression and reflection, students work through emotions, form opinions and analyze work as they learn about Canadian art, Indigenous art, and art from around the world.”

What’s in the box

Each art kit will explore a different theme, and medium, featuring drawing, pastels, painting, 3D pens, and more. An online video and printed tutorial will be included, in English and French.

The “get one, give one” model, means for every monthly subscription purchased subscribers can feel good knowing they have enhanced the quality of life for at-risk and underprivileged individuals - improving their confidence, and enabling expression through art.

As a mother to small children, Elana Chand, General Manager, Artshine & Arts4All says, “knowing that what I do every day is helping underprivileged individuals and at-risk youth make their lives more beautiful is incredibly fulfilling, and makes it easy to stay motivated and focused on achieving our goals.”

How to get one

Artshine will be accepting orders starting this summer, with the first kits being shipped out to families in January 2020. Their artists are already creating brand new, original and fun curriculum and are in the process of filming the video tutorials, teaching these unique projects.

A variety of options will be offered, including a one-month, three-month, six-month or one-year subscription. There is also an opportunity to pledge to sponsor a child as well. Until June 28th, pre-orders will receive an early-bird discount through the Kickstarter campaign, as well as free shipping via Canada Post.

ARTSHINE also offers a free local art program; Kids' Art at the Kitchener Market - every Thursday, as well as summer camps at Benjamin Tree Farm and The Beckett School.