We are deeply grateful to have been part of this year’s Arts in the Parks programming. Our program was delivered at Dentonia Park over the summer (between June 20 and July 28, 2025), where we offered four days of alebrije workshops followed by a joyful day of celebration. Each session welcomed close to 70 participants, filling the park with creativity, collaboration, and excitement.
Our program guided participants through the process of building an alebrije from scratch, using simple materials such as cardboard, paper, wire, glue, and foam balls. For those who preferred a different activity, we offered papier-mâché masks inspired by these fantastic, colourful creatures. The response was incredible — in every session, over 50 masks were painted by children and adults, while others dedicated themselves to the detailed process of shaping their own alebrijes. At the same time, a group of participants worked alongside me to build a six-foot-tall community alebrije, carefully layering papier-mâché, applying gesso, and painting the background colours.
One of the most powerful aspects of this program was the cultural exchange it encouraged. As a Latino artist, I felt honoured to collaborate closely with the Bengali and Indian community surrounding Dentonia Park. Every day, dedicated volunteers from the Swasti organization supported us, and during our final gathering, they shared their traditional Bengali soup, creating a moment of warmth and connection that beautifully complemented the Mexican art-making traditions we explored together.
The spirit of collaboration was truly inspiring. From start to finish, the support of the Dentonia Park community was fantastic, and the process of building the large alebrije together captured the collective joy of creation.
This program not only sparked imagination and creativity but also fostered meaningful connections across cultures and generations. It built a bridge between Latino, Bengali, and Indian communities, showing how art can unite people through creativity, mutual respect, and shared traditions. None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the Toronto Arts Council, Toronto Arts Foundation, and Arts in the Parks.
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“EmotionArt extends its sincere and profound gratitude to the Toronto Arts Council, Arts in the Parks, and the Toronto Arts Foundation for their invaluable support. Muchas Gracias!”
