“ What people are saying ...”
... artists
“ MASC is a source of inspiration , support and opportunities . Being a MASC artist opens doors , gives you exposure , experience , and the ability to grow working in different areas in the community .”
Claudia Salguero , Apt613 Q & A
“ Many of the staff at MASC are artists themselves and they care about seeing the community thrive and grow , and they care just as much about the artists . For me it ’ s an honour to be a MASC artist because they ’ re so wellrespected in the community . Since Bboyizm has become more and more successful , I make a point of keeping that relationship with MASC because they keep me rooted .” Yvon Soglo , Bboyizm , Apt613 Q & A
... students
‘ Writing hasn ' t just been weaved into my life ; it ' s been the driving factor behind most things . Who knows if I ' d still be at it , if you hadn ' t believed in me then ? I have no idea what my life would look like otherwise . You really did just hand over a box of absolute happiness , faith , and opportunity , to a thirteen-year-old on the cusp of discovering something really incredible . The night of the MASC awards evening , I told my parents , " I feel like an empty glass and tonight was just a jug of happiness being poured in until it overflowed ." What a gift .’ Leticia Alvarez , MASC literary arts winner who received a mentorship with Frances Itani
“ Writing a poem with words provided by Jamaal , then presenting them without getting the chance to edit it . It really pushed everyone out of their comfort zone , but it was a safe environment .” Student
... teachers / parents
“ All artists were wonderful to work with and they were quick to adapt their in-class workshops so easily to a virtual platform . Most of all , MASC artists have proved once again that they are not just experts in their disciplines but amazing individuals !” Shaz Tyndale ( OCDSB teacher )
“ Keep up the amazing , inspiring work for these young people . The world is being reminded every day now how important the arts are at a time like this .”
Parent whose child attended MASC Young Authors and Illustrators Festival
... seniors
“ It was the first time I really smiled since the pandemic began .” Senior who attend Suzan Richards ’ weekly Afro-Caribbean dance classes from her balcony
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