Radical art of young people, transforming lives and communities

We see a movement where young people are celebrated and engaged as culture makers, perception changers and collaborators in building creative communities.

Our Mission & Mandate

SKETCH is a community arts organization that offers free arts based programs, wrap-around services and access to studio space so young people can experience the transformative power of the arts; build leadership and sustainable livelihood in the arts; and cultivate social and environmental change through the arts.

SKETCH runs free arts programs for aspiring and emerging creatives 18-35yrs, who are navigating poverty and precarity due to systemic oppression with a focus on those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous, and other racialized young people.

Learn About Us

 

Impact On Our Community

What gets measured gets done. Here’s a summary of what we did in 2023:

 

370

Artists

Over 18 programs, workshops and artist talks

300

Youth

Programs aimed at Youth Development

162

Mentees

Mentorship program with professional artists as mentors

467

Students

Programs in collaboration with various schools

4

Community Events

Activities that showcase Black Canadian artists and supported by local Black businesses

Our Supporters

As a charity, we’re grateful for the support of our donors and supports which enable the work we do.

Toronto Arts Council
Ontario Arts Council
Canada Council For The Arts
Hilary & Galen Weston Foundation logo
Toronto Arts Council
Ontario Arts Council
Canada Council For The Arts
Hilary & Galen Weston Foundation logo

SKETCH COMMUNITY UPDATE (as of August 30, 2024)

For over 27 years, SKETCH Working Arts has been committed to fostering a safe and inspiring space where young people can explore their creativity, develop their skills, and find their voice.

We Need Your Help to Reset SKETCH for the Future

SKETCH is at a critical juncture. We are facing significant financial challenges that have led us to make difficult but necessary decisions, including reducing our operations and staff.

We are now partnering with community artists who will be in the space soon to open the doors to the SKETCH community! Stay tuned to our social media for announcements on upcoming sessions and further updates. Be sure to follow us @sketchtoronto.

Your Support is Vital

$500,000 to stabilize SKETCH and reset the organization so that we can be even more intentional about providing opportunities to those who need them most. Your donation will directly support our restructuring efforts, enabling SKETCH to fairly compensate terminated staff, pay artist fees for fall programs, and cover operating expenses, ensuring we can keep our doors open.

Visit our website at www.sketch.ca/donate/ to make a one-time or recurring donation. Gifts of $100, $50 or even $20 can make a real difference and will receive a tax receipt.

Together, we can reset SKETCH Working Arts for a future where we continue to empower young people through the arts, with a renewed commitment to sustainability and impact.

Thank you for your unwavering support.

Sincerely,
Board of Directors
SKETCH Working Arts

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