About

This project builds on histories by the team members of unique programming and research engagement across the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences and Library Studies. The project establishes connections between artists, scholars and communities within and outside of the university. Through consultation, education and discussion we improve arts-based engagement in the university for both pedagogy and research. It is a project focused on scholarly research drawing on arts-based approaches.

A Symposium was held in October 2022 funded by Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Connections Grant and supported by Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Libraries, TMU Faculty of Arts and TMU Faculty of Community Services. Participants in the symposium included Bachelor, Masters, and Doctoral Students, Faculty, Librarians, University Staff, Community Organizers, Artists and Art Educators. Due to the vitality from the Symposium, we have been able to engage in ongoing community research and education.

1. Explore the relationship between the method of online arts mediation and direct in-person arts experience and process, and the manner in which they might support one another in research as well as learning;
2. Build on the strengths of existing strategies of collaboration and creative practices among artists – including practitioners, creative entrepreneurs, non profit organization, social enterprises – to rethink community university partnerships and modes of interdisciplinary research;
3. Create networks and stepping stones for future collaboration for research and programming focused on university and community engagement centred around the arts.

These objectives are achievable due to the project team’s various expertise, current roles and practices in different areas of the university.

The Crafting Community project, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) (external link) , is a collaboration between the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Jack Layton Chair (opens in new window) , TMU Libraries (opens in new window) , TMU Faculty of Arts (opens in new window) , and  TMU Faculty of Community Services. (opens in new window)