The Canvas Project

 

Welcome to The Canvas Project!

Sign up below to receive your free canvas. On this canvas, you can create any artwork you desire. Once completed, the work will be returned and exhibited in March 2025 as part of the Waipa Creative Trail. Each piece will be sold for $20, with proceeds going towards creating free art packs for people in our local community with disabilities, supporting their mental health.

After you register, your canvas will be ready the following Friday for pickup at the Te Awamutu Library, located on Selwyn Lane, Te Awamutu. Approach the counter and let them know you’re picking up a pack for (your name), and they will give it to you. Inside the pack, you’ll find your free 15x15cm canvas and a flyer with information about the project and some ideas for inspiration.

If collection from Te Awamutu Library is not possible, please register and then email me at Studiotwoinformation@gmail.com, and I will be happy to arrange another option. If you would like to register for a group of people with disabilities, please email me with the name of your group and the number of canvases you need, and I will arrange delivery.

Once your canvas is complete, you can return it to the library. You may take as long as you need, as long as it’s returned by February 21st, 2025.

To stay up to date with other participants, get inspiration for your work, or learn about free workshops, follow us on Facebook!

The ‘why’ behind the canvas project 

Lee Samuel, the founder of 'The Canvas Project,' has been working in the disability sector for the past five years. Over this time, a recurring challenge has been how to support those with both disabilities and mental health needs. While I cannot change the entire system, I can make a difference for individuals.

Through my artistic background, I have found that introducing creative activities helps individuals with socialisation, anxiety, connection, and community, all of which improve mental health. I work one-on-one with people of all ages and abilities in an artistic setting, but this approach is often unaffordable or inaccessible for many with disabilities who live on very limited incomes.

Through The Canvas Project, I plan to raise enough money to create free art packs for those in our community with disabilities and or mental health conditions. These packs will be easy to use alone or with a support person, aiming to foster each individual's creativity and improve their mental health.