Over the summer of 2019, RE-create had the opportunity to hire a summer Youth Artist in Residence. In the beginning of July, Anthony Giovanetti, a 19-year-old RE-create youth started his 8-week residency with us.
Over the course of the summer, Anthony worked on his own body of work, as well as helping develop the artwork for a collaborative video game project that RE-create was making. Anthony was super helpful in the studio, assisting with organizing and performing some desperately needed deep cleaning.
Anthony also led a Plein Air Workshop—drawing outside. He took a group of RE-create youth artists on an excursion to Bayfront Park to practice drawing the live scenes that they saw around them.
On Friday, August 9th Anthony had his first solo exhibition of his paintings in conjunction with the launch of RE-create’s collaborative video game. I recently had a chance to interview Anthony about his experience at RE-create, and here’s what he had to say:
Q: How long have you been making art? Where did it all begin for you?
A: About 15 years ago. It started in elementary school, having to do a project and get graded on it. I noticed how much I enjoyed art over other school subjects, like math and geography. Over the years I’ve developed my art practice, trying to get better.
Q: How long have you been coming to RE-create and why did you get involved?
A: I started coming a few years ago after hearing about the program though the Youth Wellness Centre. I love the atmosphere and people here.
Q: What was your first impression of RE-create?
A: I was highly interested in the accessibility of art materials, that’s what reeled me in. What made me stay was the awesome people I got to know.
Q: Why do you like to make art and what is your favourite kind to make?
A: I make art because of habit. I love exploring different mediums and techniques, but the fine arts, primarily painting and drawing, are what I do most.
Q: What have been some of your favourite RE-create projects/art shows and why?
A: Every event we have at RE-create thrills me! I really enjoy the Christmas party we have every year because it’s when I get to see everyone I’ve gotten to know over the years.
Q: What skills or new art forms have you learned since being at RE-create?
A: I believe I’ve adopted the artistic point of view of others, integrating these into my own creative expression. It’s helped build me as an individual and a creator.
Q: How has RE-create impacted your life?
A: RE-create has impacted me personally to a large degree. It’s helped me to explore new ideas, experience local business ventures and participate in community building.
Q: Is there anything else you want people to know about you?
A: With the help of RE-create I have changed for the better. This adventure I’ve had the pleasure to experience has helped me grow, certainly benefitting me for the future.
Thank you, Anthony, for sharing your experiences at RE-create! We are excited to see where your art career takes you!
In other news, there are some exciting RE-create events coming up in which you can view art created by RE-create artists and even purchase some pieces.
The DIY-together Youth Artists & Mentors will be selling their work at Makers’ Market – Holiday Edition on Friday, December 6th from 5 – 9 p.m. and Saturday, December 7th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Christ’s Church Cathedral – 252 James St N in Hamilton.
In addition, check out Disconnected Neighbours – a RE-create collaborative project with F.J. Hayden Secondary School as part of Hamilton’s Art Crawl on Friday, December 13th from 7 – 9 p.m. @ 126 James St N in Hamilton.
Megarrah Buxton is RE-create’s Studio Coordinator.