Portraits of Community Care

This workshop offers a space for dialogue and art-making, specifically designed for Japanese Canadian women and non-binary people of all generations. It’s an opportunity to explore the often-unseen labour and care that sustains community life.

What to Expect Co-facilitated by Erica H. Isomura and Nico Koyanagi, the session begins with a conversation about care, gendered labour, and community wellbeing. Following the dialogue, you'll participate in a beginner-friendly mixed-media/collage art activity, where Erica will teach you how to create portraits as an homage to loved ones.

Participants are encouraged to bring copies of personal photos of women, family members, caregivers, mentors, or teachers who have played a caretaking role in their lives. It’s a beautiful way to honour the people who have shaped your journey.

Practical Info The workshop is open to all ages (children 12 and under must be accompanied by a guardian). The cost is $7 to reserve a spot, but the organizers emphasize that nobody will be turned away for lack of funds—if the cost is prohibitive, please email the organizers directly. It’s a wonderful, inclusive event at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre.