MARK-MAKING

In May, this series of workshops builds on the April printmaking sessions by shifting from processes of carving and printing into layering, mark-making, and painting. While earlier sessions explored language through words and repetition, this series expands into non-verbal forms of expression, focusing on how meaning can be created through gesture, colour, and material.

Participants will work with a range of materials including markers, watercolour, acrylic paint, and soft pastels. Through guided exercises and group activities, they will explore how marks, textures, and colour can communicate emotion, memory, and personal experience without relying on written language.

The workshops focus on experimentation and process-based learning, offering space for participants of all experience levels to engage in ways that feel open and exploratory. By the end of the series, participants will create a collection of artworks that reflect their own approaches to mark-making, colour, and composition.

Session 1:
Warm-up exercises to loosen into creative making, including drawing and group mark-making activities. Participants also reflect on the April printmaking works, sharing feedback and revisiting their finished pieces.

Session 2:
Participants revisit one of their earlier prints and expand it using mixed media approaches such as layering, cutting, rearranging, and adding paint or collage materials.

Session 3:
Introduction to painting through a spring-inspired theme. Participants explore flowers, plants, and natural forms using colour and simple shapes to build expressive compositions.

Session 4:
Continuation of painting work with added layering, detail, and personal expression. The session ends with time for reflection and sharing.

All materials are provided by Jamii, removing barriers and allowing participants to focus fully on the creative process.

This series is a good fit for older adults in Toronto who are interested in painting, mixed media, or visual arts workshops that focus on process, experimentation, and creative expression. The pace is supportive and welcoming. Participants register for the Belonging Older Adults program, then can attend any Tuesday session that works for them.

Support free community arts

Jamii offers workshops free of charge so that everyone can take part. If you’re able, you can help pay it forward by making a donation through Jamii’s website. Your support helps sustain accessible, community-rooted arts experiences for neighbours of all ages.

These workshops are open to people of all experience levels. No background in visual arts is required. Participants are encouraged to take part in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful to them.

Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited.

Jamii's Belonging Older Adults workshops are sponsored by Government of Canada - New Horizons for Seniors Program, Canada Council for the Arts, Government of Ontario, and St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association.