Art + Public Space = STEPS

CSI former intern Alexis Kane Speer is branching out to launch a new project, which we are proud to host here at the Centre. The Sustainable Thinking and Expression on Public Space (STEPS) Initiative is a collaborative effort that aims to promote sustainable and community-centred public spaces by engaging inspiring and creative organizations, informal collectives and individuals committed to using art as a medium for dialogue on liberating the urban commons. By deepening the connection between people and public space, and empowering citizens to take a creative hands-on approach to their urban environments, STEPS is helping people create vital community places.

Through a participatory consultation process, STEPS is connecting public space enthusiasts to facilitate effective collaboration and the development of accessible, arts-based, knowledge exchange tools that promote citizen empowerment and community capacity building. Working closely with community artists, activists, youth, policy-makers and community members, the STEPS Initiative will develop a series of educational and knowledge-exchange tools, including a documentary film.

Get Involved!

With grassroots projects underway in communities from coast to coast, their small team needs you to help them connect with what's happening in your home town. If you, or someone you know, are creatively engaging communities in public spaces, theywant to hear about it! STEPS is also currently looking for partners interested in each of the STEPS knowledge exchange tools, and building a team of volunteers to report about projects underway in their own communities.

The STEPS Initiative has received support from the YMCA's Youth Eco Internship Program.

To learn more, visit www.stepsinitiative.com or become a fan of the STEPS Facebook page