Thirteen years ago, a remarkable group of individuals from Oakville, Brampton, Milton, Burlington, and Mississauga came together, united by one common thread: a shared passion for art. Their meeting place was the Oakville Arts Studio, a vibrant art center founded by textile artist Ixchel Suarez. What began as a creative outlet for personal expression soon grew into a sanctuary of community, connection, and healing.
Every Thursday morning, this group gathered to paint, sketch, and create, but their purpose went beyond art. Many came to escape the demands of everyday life, to recover from illness, to process loss, or to find purpose in the wake of empty-nesting or relocation. For these individuals, the studio became a refuge—a place where the strokes of a brush or the pull of a thread could weave a sense of emotional balance and belonging.
When the pandemic hit, the world paused, but this group’s bond remained unbroken. Through online art classes, they found a way to stay connected, proving that even in isolation, creativity and community could thrive. Today, some members still meet virtually, a testament to the enduring power of art to sustain relationships and uplift spirits in challenging times.
Art is often misunderstood as a luxury, but this group’s journey reminds us of its vital role in our lives. It’s not merely about creating something beautiful—it’s about living a richer, more fulfilled, and more balanced life. In an age where fast-paced information often overwhelms, art becomes a lifeline, helping us process emotions, find clarity, and foster resilience.
This commitment to the transformative power of art is now at the heart of a new initiative by Laureate College in collaboration with Oak Heights Arts Studio. The recently opened Galleries at Laureate College invite the general public to experience the joy of art in a welcoming and contemplative space. These galleries are free to visit, offering families and individuals a chance to explore inspiring works and connect with a broader artistic community.
We invite you to join us, to take a moment to pause, and to witness how art can weave connections between people, experiences, and emotions. Let this initiative remind us all that art is not just a creative pursuit—it is the fabric of a thriving, compassionate community. Community Artists and from Oakville Art Collective are: Joyce Chow, Tazeen Davar, Rose Feikes, Jenny Kim, Debbie Lindhorst, Sylvia Martinez, Carol Herbert, Victor Stampattori, Stella Tang.
Join us at the opening vernissge during our Candlelight Concert on December 7th, and Visit the new Galleries at Laureate College and discover a space where art, connection, and contemplation come together. Let’s celebrate this beautiful initiative that started with a small group and now embraces the wider community. Together, through art, we can find balance, joy, and a renewed sense of belonging.
