Art Gems Annual Gala for Creative Works Studio

Art Gems is the annual fundraising art auction in support of Creative Works Studio. Since 2007 Art Gems has raised more than $1.8 million for this life-changing mental health outreach program. Together we promote positive change in the lives of the many Studio members, who experience healing, increased self-esteem, new skills, a sense of community through their participation in the arts.

Creative Works Studio, est. 1995, is a vital community-based program offering healing and recovery through art, for people living with persistent and severe mental illness and addiction. It offers its members, many of whom have never had the opportunity to create art before, a safe space to be understood and encouraged; for members to reach their greatest potential through purposeful artistic expressions including painting, sculpting, music and dance, photography, theater and more. CWS is actively involved in the community promoting mental health awareness, education, research and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness and addiction.

About Creative Works Studio members:

• Men and women come from diverse educational and socio-economic backgrounds

• 95% of the Studio members have improved their life skills and sense of well-being, through increased productivity, participation, and socialization, while sharing in the studio environment

• Many members have entered art shows and have sold their work

The 16th annual Art Gems Charity Auction will take place in May 2023 at the Great Hall, 1087 Queen Street East Toronto. For tickets or more information please visit artgems.ca.