Sandi Dodds started The Mess Open Arts Studio in 2009. Following a conversation with a fellow artist, they identified a need for a space in Kingston where they could focus on building a healthy community through art and creativity. At first, The Mess operated out of the friendship room at Martha's Table, where four to six people met weekly. Now located in Gill Hall of St. Andrew's Church, the Mess’s community has grown significantly, with over one hundred people participating in activities and events each week.
Colourful signs outside the door let passersby know that artmaking is happening inside. In the studio, a curiosity-based approach encourages conversation among the artists. Participants learn various art techniques from each other, including acrylic and watercolour painting, ceramics, and mixed media. The community is diverse and includes new immigrants, retirees, students, etc., all with a common interest in artmaking and in being in the community. There are no volunteers; all participants are community members. The tagline at The Mess Studio is 'Building community with hands and heart.'
Colourful signs outside the door let passersby know that artmaking is happening inside. In the studio, a curiosity-based approach encourages conversation among the artists. Participants learn various art techniques from each other, including acrylic and watercolour painting, ceramics, and mixed media. The community is diverse and includes new immigrants, retirees, students, etc., all with a common interest in artmaking and in being in the community. There are no volunteers; all participants are community members. The tagline at The Mess Studio is 'Building community with hands and heart.'
When asked about community, Sandi explained: “I think community is about the connection that happens when [we] accept people that have different opinions, that live a different life, but we can all come together and appreciate. Maybe you can appreciate what I'm going through, and I can appreciate what you're going through. We can chat about it, and we can feel seen and heard and accepted.”
