WORDS AND REFLECTIONS FROM OUR COMMUNITY MEMBERS

“…WORKSPACE 8 IS CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN ARTISTS THAT ARE HARD TO COME BY…

…A SPACE OF ACCEPTANCE, CAMARADERIE AND CREATIVITY…”

Workspace 8 is creating opportunities for women artists that are hard to come by. Even with attention on women artists and their lack of representation there is little to suggest that is changing. For myself who also intersects as a racialized “black” woman of Afro- Carribean descent who is Muslim and wears niqab, many art spaces are still rather unwelcoming. To top it all off with housewife of three…

 

My reality as an artist and art consumer is still mostly disregarded. Debbie has countered my jaded view by creating a space of acceptance, camaraderie and creativity.  Before I discovered Workspace 8, I was almost ready to give up on my artistic pursuits since I could not create a home studio and I could not afford a workspace. Also, being in a woman-only environment was of great importance.

 

To have a space in the heart of the Fashion District in the 401 Richmond building, which is a landmark and icon of the Arts in Toronto, at such an accessible price point for women is something that needs to be supported!  I almost thought it was a scam when I first read the ad. Not only is it far from a scam but Debbie is the real deal when it comes to cultivating female creativity. I am really happy that there is someone like Debbie who is part of the art community here in Toronto.

– Erica Harris | Artist

“…I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS…

…IT MEANT DOING THINGS TOGETHER AS A COLLABORATIVE COMMUNITY…

…THE PERFECT PLACE IN WHICH TO BUILD MY FREELANCE ILLUSTRATION CAREER…”

Having a studio space with Workspace 8 fresh out of university was an amazing opportunity for me, as it was the perfect place in which to build my freelance illustration career. I had the opportunity to make meaningful connections, connect with artists in different fields, and even run a workshop based on my own art expertise.

 

Being part of Workspace 8 also meant doing things together as a collaborative community, hanging out and tabling together at art events. I also loved being able to participate in the 401 Richmond community as a whole, taking part in street fairs and hanging out on the rooftop garden – it’s truly a magical place. In short, I’d recommend Workspace8 for any other artists!

– Xulin Wang | Illustrator, OCADU Graduate, xulinwang.com

“…IT’S A SPACE WHERE WOMEN SUPPORT EACH OTHER IN BOTH PERSONAL AND CAREER ASPIRATIONS.

A PLACE THAT FOSTERS GROWTH, INSPIRES CREATIVITY AND NOURISHES COLLABORATION. “

Being a part of Workspace 8 was much more than I expected when I first made the decision to join this shared space of like minded women.

 

Not only is this cozy space perfectly located on the 4th floor of the most precious building in the city, but more importantly it’s a space where women support each other in both personal and career aspirations. A place that fosters growth, inspires creativity and nourishes collaboration.

 

Debbie is the kindest soul and it has been a privilege getting to know her and working in the same space with someone who is inclusive, thoughtful and inspiring. I will miss it there dearly, but hope to be back soon!

– Faten Badr | Artist, m.o.t.h.project

“WORKSPACE 8 IS A PLACE WHERE ARTISTS CAN EXPRESS THEMSELVES COMFORTABLY AND WORK IN PEACE TOGETHER.

THE ATMOSPHERE  AROUND THE STUDIO WAS PEACEFUL AND AUTHENTIC.

…A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY WHICH IS HARD TO FIND ANYWHERE.”

Workspace 8 is a place where artists can express themselves comfortably and work in peace together. 

 

My co-workers were so creative, and I have had inspiration from them. The atmosphere  around the studio was peaceful and authentic. I am glad that I had a chance to meet with those amazing women artists and to be a part of Workspace 8. I created various projects and pieces of art in there. It will always remain a special place to share and work for me. 

 

Debbie is an amazing person who tries her best to keep the studio with positive vibes. She works so hard to encourage a supportive community which is hard to find anywhere. It was a great experience for me to work with a such an incredible person like her at Workspace 8.

 

I will miss the energy of the studio so much, and I would love to come together and work on some far-reaching projects again with my colleagues! Thank you 🙂

– Gulay Alpay | Artist

“WORKSPACE 8 IS EXACTLY THE TYPE OF PLACE I ALWAYS DREAMED OF BEING A PART OF!

…TO HAVE A CREATIVE SPACE FOR WOMEN TO COLLABORATE AND ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER IS AMAZING.”

Workspace8 is exactly the type of place I always dreamed of being a part of! To have a creative space for women to collaborate and encourage each other is amazing. It feels like a lil’ haven where I can relax and get art done.

 

It’s so nice being surrounded by different types of creativity…not to mention it’s in such a cute space with lots of plants and beautiful windows. Such good vibes ❤️

– Laura Alessandrini | Artist