Awesome Arts

Awesome Arts en folie unites participants of all ages in exploring community issues through diverse art forms. In partnership with local organizations, Awesome Arts hosts workshops for various age groups, culminating in a public celebration. Through slam poetry, animation, music, theatre, and video, participants express themselves while addressing community concerns.

In November 2017, Awesome Arts was awarded the International Spotlight Award presented by the American National Arts and Humanities Youth program. Along with 12 exceptional organizations from across the United States, MASC was thrilled receive the United States' highest honour for after-school arts and humanities programs that reach underserved youth.

Awesome Arts was originally developed by Jolynn Sommervill as a One World Arts program in 2009 before moving to MASC in 2013. Since its inception, 19 editions of Awesome Arts have been held in Ottawa communities with diverse partners. It has offered 1867 workshops to 3000 participants. Awesome Arts Festivals have featured performances by over 80 local artists and 3000 participants and engaged over 8000 audience members.

 

Videos for Awesome Arts

Why Awesome Arts is awesome

“I can’t imagine where I would be today without the kind of programming Awesome Arts provided during my teenage years. It became my refuge amidst the challenges I was facing. Through their workshops, I discovered healthier ways to channel my frustrations and a space where I could find joy and creativity, even if only once a week. For someone like me, who didn’t have access to professional therapy during difficult times, art became my form of healing. I can truly say that Awesome Arts played a pivotal role in helping me navigate those years, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.”

— Akuol Luala, former Awesome Arts participant, former MASC Board Member

A big thank you to our festival sponsors!

Explore more events