Possibilities Project

“Homeless. Housed. Poor. Rich.
There is no limit to the possibilities in art where the medium becomes part of the subject matter and the destination is always the journey.”

 –Reg Knelsen

Since time immemorial, art and music has been powerful medicine for communities of human beings all over the planet. The Possibilities Project was founded on the belief that nurturing creative expression, in its many and myriad forms, enhances personal growth and achievement. In a homeless shelter, opportunities for building a sense of self, having fun and finding joy are limited by the realities of the environment. The Possibilities Project moves beyond the provision of basic human needs to ensure hearts and spirits are fed, along with bodies, so that each individual experiencing homelessness has the opportunity to discover themselves through participation in and enjoyment of art and music – individually and collectively. Through this exploration, it is possible for our clients to create avenues back to that place where they are at home within themselves. Art celebrates life– inside and out. In the creative space of the Possibilities Project, each participant has an opportunity to delve into an inner world of possibility– a world other than the daily grind of homelessness.

The Origins

In 2006 Wild Rose United Church donated $2,000 towards the Possibilities Project. The monies were used to purchase art supplies. Initially, programs were held every Thursday evening and Saturday in the multi-purpose room on the 6th floor of the DI. Every session, clients of varying artistic measure would turn up and create. The program was not designed as a teaching environment but rather as an opportunity for each individual to connect with their ‘inner muse’. Over the course of five years, The Possibilities Project has grown to encompass performing arts, providing opportunities for musicians, songwriters, and singers to participate and perform on stage in front of audiences.

As well, clients have participated in the creation of three plays with local artists: The Lower Depths, directed by Ian Prinsloo, Two Bit Oper eh? Shun, the brainchild of Onalea Gilbertson, and Power Play: Homelessness, directed by forum theatre founder, David Diamond.

Workshops have included mask-making, found object sculptures, clay-work, artist trading cards and cowboy hat painting for the annual Tip Your Hat, a cowboy hat auction to support This is My City. TMC is an initiative that focuses on giving homeless artists an opportunity to partner with Calgary artist mentors.

For most of it’s 5 year life span, the Possibilities Project has been operated by client and community volunteers. In February of 2011, funding was provided by the Calgary Foundation for a ½ time contract for a Program Coordinator. Having a paid staff member involved in a coordination capacity has opened up several new opportunities. Also, the first 5 years of projects and programs resulted in a foundation of sustainable, ongoing programs.

Current Program Initiatives

The Wild Rose Art Studio

Located on the 6th floor of the DI, the Wild Rose Studio is a creative sanctuary with a million dollar view of the Bow River. Clients may access the studio for the creation of visual arts projects as well as receive mentoring by experienced artists. All supplies are free and made available through donation. Access is made possible through client and community volunteers.

The DI Singers

Each Monday evening, the DI Singers gather in the multi-purpose studio on the 6th for an acoustic folk sing-along. Existing for several years, this program is open to all and is a combination of clients and community volunteers.

Rhythm Soothes the Soul (Drum Circle)

The feeling and sound of group drumming is an ancient medicine for individuals and groups all over planet earth. Every Saturday, an eclectic collective of DI clients, staff and community volunteers gather to experience the power and spirit of the drum.

The ArtBeat Project

The ArtBeat project is a recent initiative designed to bring more opportunity for involvement in creative and musical activities to the entire DI community. This project involves the physical development of an art and music activity area on the 2nd floor of the DI, where most clients spend most of their time. Also, ArtBeat will bring the regular performance and presentation of a myriad of art forms directly into the daily lives of our clients.

You Are Welcome to Get Involved

We welcome all who wish to get involved in the Possibilities Project!
Below are some ways that you may contribute.

• Volunteer time in any of our programs
• Donate supplies, equipment or instruments
• Teach a workshop or lessons
• Perform for our clients on the ArtBeat Stage – any art form!!
• Participate –  your presence could be a wonderful addition to our community.

For more information
Jordan Hamilton

Manager, External Relations

403-699-8227

JordanH@thedi.ca

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