Photo by Elena Mozhvilo on Unsplash.
A welcoming space to make art and build community
Art Hives are free, community art studios guided by the philosophy of art for all. They recognize all participants as artists and emphasize creative expression in a safe, non-judgmental space. The Faculty of Health Art Hive is offered by the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies.
How it works
-
Students (undergraduate and graduate), staff, and faculty from the Faculty of Health are all welcome.
- Drop-in. No registration required.
- No previous art experience is necessary.
- Artists of all skill levels are encouraged to join.
- Use our free supplies or bring your own projects to work on in the company of others.
- Draw, sketch, write, paint, knit and more.
- Socialize with others or work quietly/independently.
2026 - 2027 Schedule
The Art Hive runs once monthly during the Fall and Winter terms. It does not currently run during exam months. Check in for updated dates, times and locations.
|
Date and time |
Location |
Optional activity |
|---|---|---|
|
Thursday, September 24, 1:30–3:30 p.m. |
BMH 2216 in RLS |
Woven bookmarks |
|
Thursday, October 22, 1–3 p.m. |
BMH 2216 in RLS |
Learn to make crochet pumpkins with Rachel Deans (Kinesiology graduate student) |
|
Thursday, November 26, 1–3 p.m. |
BMH 2116 outside RLS |
Holiday cardmaking *Note that we’re in a different room (around this corner by the trophy case) this month |
|
January 2027 To be determined |
To be determined |
Paper flower garlands |
| February 2027 To be determined | To be determined | Valentine’s cardmaking |
| March 2027 To be determined | To be determined | Button-making |
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to sign up or register to participate?
No, everyone is welcome as space and materials allow. Come on by!
Is there a cost to participate?
No, Art Hives are built on gift economy principles—art supplies (and sometimes specialized instruction) are shared freely with no obligation from participants.
Am I required to stay for the entire two-hour session?
No, the Art Hive is drop-in and you may come and go as you wish. You’re welcome to stop by for five minutes or stay for the full session.
Do I have to attend all of the sessions to join the Art Hive?
No, you are welcome to come to whichever sessions you like. There are no commitment or registration requirements.
What kinds of art supplies do you have?
We operate on donations and funding, so supplies vary based on what we receive. However, you can typically expect things like drawing materials (markers, crayons, pencil crayons), craft papers, paint and paintbrushes, stickers, beads, and yarn and knitting/crochet/weaving supplies. We occasionally have special supplies, like air-dry clay.
Can I take materials home with me?
No. While you are welcome to take your completed projects or works-in-progress home, please do not take extra supplies or Art Hive materials with you. Our resources are limited and keeping materials in the studio ensures that as many people as possible have access to our supplies.
Can I donate art supplies to the Art Hive?
Absolutely! We welcome donations of new and gently used art materials. Please contact Zara Rafferty to arrange drop-off/pick-up.
Art Hive Guidelines
Art for all: Everyone is an artist here. No experience or particular skill level is required.
Process over product: We do not critique or evaluate artwork. The focus is on being present, experimenting and art making in community.
Respect the space and each other: Be kind, patient, and mindful of others, the shared materials, and the shared environment.
The gift economy: Art Hive materials are provided at no cost to participants.You are welcome to take your creations with you, and we ask that extra Art Hive materials and supplies remain in the space for everyone to use.
Create at your own pace: There is no right way to participate. Come and go as you need, and work in whatever way feels right for you. Facilitators may offer activity suggestions, but these are entirely optional—you’re welcome to work on any project you choose with the supplies we provide or bring your own materials/ongoing project from home.
Consent matters: Always ask before touching someone else’s artwork, materials, or personal space.
Inclusion is a shared responsibility: Everyone is responsible for keeping the space welcoming and accessible for all bodies, minds, and ways of being.