Upcoming Events and Workshops
Healing Hearts Through the Expressive Arts
By Donation/Pay-what-you-can: please register, 18+
Come to an Introductory 2 hour interactive workshop to experience healing tools of the Expressive Arts for helping holistically heal trauma stored in the mind, the body, the soul. Taught by artist-in-residence VL Parker.
Art Without Rules
Pay-what-you-can, drop-in, 14+
Have you ever been criticized in art classes for not drawing something "well" or "correctly?" Do you love art, but feel like it's one-sided, unrequited love? Do you want to try creating, but feel held back by fear? Do you find yourself saying toother artists "wow, I can't even draw a stick figure!"
Art without Rules is aimed at people of any skill levels, but especially those with no/ limited experience in art that would like to try drawing/ painting, but are afraid to start, or caught up in the idea of having to do it "right". The purpose of the workshop is to illustrate the fact that doing art does not have to be a big or a fancy endeavor, and that it can actually be something very mundane, low pressure, and lighthearted. Some of the activities of the workshop will include blind contour drawing and drawing with left hands to let go of the anxiety of having to draw "correctly," and seeing objects as simple shapes to simplify the process of art. Multiple different mediums will be present for people to use and explore - pen, pencil, markers, paint, etc.
Taught by artist-in-residence Jiwon You.
Orange Shirt Awareness Workshop
Tickets by donation starting at $5, please register, 18+, no experience required
Join us for a hands-on workshop where participants will learn a simple beaded edge technique on orange pellon to create their own beaded pin—a piece they can wear on Orange Shirt Day (September 30) to honor the children who never returned from residential schools and to affirm that Every Child Matters. The orange shirt symbolizes the stripping away of Indigenous identity and culture, while also representing resilience, remembrance, and healing.
We are honoured to welcome Elder Jackie Bromley, who has dedicated her life to improving the lives of Indigenous people and preserving cultural traditions through numerous social initiatives.
The workshop will be guided by Pearl White Quills, from the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy), Niitsitapi (The Real People) Siksika, Kainai, and Amskapi Piikani Nations. Blessed with the name Aa koa miyanist tsi'nih kiaki ~ Sings Many Different Songs Woman, Pearl is the founder of Bright Swan Creations. Since 2008, she has been creating beadwork inspired by knowledge passed down from her childhood. Alongside her children, she began selling beadwork at pow wows in 2012, later expanding into sewing and sharing her gifts in song and drumming. Facilitating workshops that pass on teachings has become her passion, with a mission to “Empower First Nations in all forms of artistry, having our Spirituality as the foundation. Inspiring healing through unity, as one.”
This workshop is not only an opportunity to learn beading techniques, but also to connect with Indigenous culture, teachings, and the spirit of reconciliation.
Artists Trading Cards for NEWCOMERS
Calling all NEWCOMERS to Canada or Calgary!
FREE - please register, All ages welcome (accompanied by an adult), no experience necessary. Organized in conjunction with the Calgary Women's Centre!
Join us at Sparrow Artspace for a fun and creative event where you can make and trade your own Artists Trading Cards with other newcomers in Calgary! This is a great way to meet fellow newcomers and creatives, share your work, and connect with the local art community. All suplies will be provided.
Board members Yiting Hui and Sandra Neill will be in attendance to answer any questions about our artists-in-residence program and connect newcomers to other artists resources in the community!
What Are Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)?
Artist Trading Cards are miniature works of art measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches—the size of a standard playing card. Originating in the 1990s, the ATC movement began in Switzerland with artist M. Vänçi Stirnemann, who envisioned a way for artists to exchange their creations without monetary transactions. The concept quickly gained global popularity, fostering artistic expression and collaboration. Today, ATCs are celebrated as an inclusive and accessible way to share art and build connections within creative communities.
Art from Within: An Introductory Journey into Spirit Led Creativity
By Donation/Pay-what-you-can, please register, drop-in, 18+
Unlock the transformative power of creativity and spirituality in our immersive workshop designed for artists and seekers alike taught by artist-in-residence VL Parker. Dive deep into the essence of your inner spirit and express your unique voice through art.
Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this experience will guide you to:
• Connect with Your Inner Spirit: Discover the profound connection between spirituality and creativity, and learn to channel your inner wisdom onto the canvas.
• Explore Symbolism and Meaning: Delve into the rich world of spiritual symbols and meanings, and incorporate them into your art to tell your personal story.
• Express Emotions and Heal: Use art as a therapeutic tool to express emotions, find peace, and foster personal growth.
Abstract 6 Residency Opening
FREE, drop-in, 18+
Join six local artists as we open the doors to residency at Sparrow Artspace. Abstract 6 begins a month-long creative exploration and exhibition of abstract artwork under the theme In Process. All are invited to drop in, get inspired, and connect with other art lovers. We’ll talk all things abstract and get an overview of the creative fun we have in store for the month of October.
Collaborating and drawing together!
FREE, please register, 16+
Let’s join together for a fun art experience! using a timed approach, one person starts a drawing then passes it on when their time is up. Three people in a group will keep three pieces of paper circulating. You can draw anything you want. Completed pieces have surprisingly creative results! Materials are supplied and include paper, markers , pens, pencils, and coloured pencils.
Taught by artist-in-residence Anne Marie Gunst.
Trapped Shape Abstracts
FREE, please register, Adults and Teens 16+
Create abstract designs using line and a rectangle or square. Relax and explore different materials. Create more designs using marks, colour, lines and shapes. Taught by artist-in-residence Ghislaine Cleiren. No experience needed. Supplies will be provided.
Abstract Textile Collage
$30, please register, 16+ with some art experience
Create a collage using a variety of textile materials. The created work uses the textiles as a distinctive feature. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your style, this workshop will guide you through playful techniques: painting, collage, layering, painting, sewing,... Have fun playing and exploring possibilities with something unusual and unexpected.
YES, you Can Abstract!
$35, please register, 16+
Create unique, abstracts, using play and flow. Guided prompts and timed practices will help you into the more intuitive, right the brain flow state. Then enjoy refining, and creating additional artwork using colour and design simplification.
Taught by artist-in-residence Susan Hull.
Mini Abstracts on Paper
$60, please register, 18+
Join artist Claudia Lorenz for a playful evening of abstract artmaking at Sparrow ArtSpace. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore paint, collage, and mixed media through a guided layering process and create six unique mini abstracts to take home. All materials are included, and no experience is required—just bring your curiosity!
Creative Imagination
$60, please register, 16+ with some art experience
Unleash your inner artist in this imaginative workshop abstracting from photos. There will be two parts to this workshops.
a)PLAY with partial photos to create abstract designs through simplification and finding design elements. Create unique abstracts through play and experimentation.
b) Simplifying shapes and lines from a printed photo in 4 steps. Then enjoy refining with colour and mark making. Keep playing and create more unique abstract designs. Expect plenty of inspiration, creativity, and fun as you explore simplification.
Taught by artist-in-resident Ghislaine Cleiren.
New Work Exhibition and Closing Reception
FREE, drop-in
In Process Exhibition showcases artwork created during Abstract 6's month-long residency at Sparrow Artspace.
Stitch & B.I.T.C.H (Brave, Inspired, Thriving, Connected, Healing) Circle
FREE - please register, for Women ages 18+
Sitch & B.I.T.C.H Circle (Bold, Inspired, Thriving, Connected, Healing)
A cozy, come-as-you-choose space for WOMEN only who crave connection, creativity, and candid conversations. Whether you are stitching, creating, conspiring, or sipping tea and taking it all in, this is the space for you.
What to expect
a warm and welcoming vibe where every woman belongs
zero pressure, all presence -bring a project or start one here
Honest chats, deep belly laughs, soft moments and shared stories
a community built for us, by us, where care, creativity, support, and colle
Please note that this is a CHILDREN free space
Opening Reception: Healing Hearts Through Art
FREE, drop-in
Join us in celebrating Healing Hearts through Art, a residency featuring artists Jiwon You, VL Parker, and Q. Together, this culturally diverse collective—representing First Nations, immigrant, and queer perspectives—explores healing through interdisciplinary practices including visual arts, audio, poetry, spiritual art, animation, and digital media.
Drawing from lived experiences of trauma and resilience, their work reflects both the quiet, everyday moments of joy and the deeper currents of spirit-led, ancestral wisdom. Through collaboration and individuality, the artists invite you to witness their journeys and, in turn, find moments of recognition, connection, and healing within the art.
Mandala Art & Mindfulness Workshop
TICKETS by donation from $5, please register!
No art experience needed—just bring your open heart. All materials will be provided. Ages: Adults & Teens 16+
In our busy, distracted, and often overwhelming world, we rarely pause to sit with ourselves—to just be. This Mandala Art & Mindfulness Workshop offers you a chance to do exactly that.
Join us for a soul-nourishing afternoon of Mandala drawing, gentle reflection, and creative self-expression at the serene Sparrow Artspace. Mandalas—circular, symmetrical patterns—are more than just beautiful artworks. They are a meditative and grounding practice that can help soothe the nervous system, calm the mind, and restore balance from within.Creating a Mandala is like coming home to yourself—an invitation to slow down, meet your inner world, and express it with intention.
In this guided experience, you will:
Learn the basics of Mandala structure and pattern creation
Use drawing as a mindfulness practice
Explore your creativity in a calm, supportive setting
Leave with a one-of-a-kind Mandala artwork created by you
Taught by Sneha Kandhari from Kalmeri Studio
Sneha Kandhari is a Calgary-based artist, writer, and mindful art facilitator. Through Kalmeri Studio, she guides individuals of all ages in using mandala creation as a pathway to emotional clarity and creative reconnection. A mother and former marketing professional, Sneha understands the demands of modern life—and is passionate about helping others find sanctuary within.
Instagram: @kalmeristudio
Website: kalmeristudio.com
Darling, I don’t Dream of Labour
FREE - please register, Celebrate Labour Day with rest, 11am until you wake
Inspired by the creative minds like Tricia Hersey, Rest is Resistance the wise words of James Baldwin and the several ancestors who fought for our labour rights in Alberta and abroad! At Recess Calgary we value rest, play and our tapping our into our creativity. Our tagline is 'take a break'.
Rationale for an event: Recess Calgary is looking at different ways to find rest. We wanted to identify a way to honour what it could mean to take a break. To take time to reflect on our relationship to labour, to celebrate our labour, to resist labour and to reexamine how we might be creative with our labour. On Labour Day we'll reexamine our labour by celebrating the value of rest! Rest and labour are intrinsically linked.
How!?
Together We'll rest!
We'll be in conversation!
Topics include: Labour you enjoy, "laziness", Luddites, Degrowth, Dreamspace
What you need? Bring your pillows, blankets, whatever you need to find yourself in comfort and rest. The vibe is 'sleep over' or nap time.
Agenda
Introductions
Setting the Rest
Disussion
Rest
Discussion
Rest
End
Sacred Parlour Presented by the Oratory
Pay-what-you-may (proceeds go to facilitators), please register, 18+
What does “faith” look like without religion? What does “worship” look like outside of a building? On August 17, 24, and 31, wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you’re invited to explore these questions at The Oratory Presents: Sacred Parlour. A reimagined third space for those seeking connection without labels or liturgy, dogma or discrimination, come enjoy an intentional and intimate setting wrapped in music, message, and meaning. Bring a journal, friend, and open heart.
The Social Artistry Method: Social Alchemy Workshop and Design Lab
Social Alchemy Workshops are held Friday afternoons (1:00pm - 3:00pm) during the month of August. Together you can share, experiment and practice your unique facilitation skills, gather feedback and leave inspired. The workshops are intended for anyone who wants to deepen their facilitation practice whether you're a newbie or seasoned facilitator. All are welcome. Taught by artists-in-residence Coach T. and Pricilla Cherry.
Each workshop we'll explore the social artistry method.
Who Can Participate?
Everyone can participate including those involved in,
Community Development
Mental Health
Arts & Social Change
Religion
Design Thinking
Event Planning
If you're interested to learn about your unique creative power as a facilitator these labs are for you!
What is the Social Artisty Method?
Using the analogy of the traditional Scientific Method
Observation
What do you know, what does your experience inform your practice
How do you convene and hold space for others
Research
What are you interested to share, how to convene.
Impact
Intention and impact
Experiment
Practice your facilitation skills
Express creativity
Analysis
Feedback from your peers
Utilizing imagiantion
Invitiation
Who do you connect with?
How do you access your impact?
Where ever your find yourself along the continuumn of the social artistry method you're welcome to participate and encouraged to come learn and explore
Ingredients to Social Alchemy?
Social Alchemy Workshops are based from the ongoing work of the Exhibit of Social at Sparrow ArtsSpace. At the month long exhibit artistic research is being explored to deepen an understanding of social artisty. The learnings from the exhbit will be embedded into the workshop series!
Artists Trading Cards
FREE! Please register, for Adults, no experience necessary.
Join us at Sparrow Artspace for a fun and creative event where you can make and trade your own Artists Trading Cards with other creatives! This is a great way to meet fellow artists, share your work, and connect with the local art community. All suplies will be provided.
What Are Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)?Artist Trading Cards are miniature works of art measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches—the size of a standard playing card. Originating in the 1990s, the ATC movement began in Switzerland with artist M. Vänçi Stirnemann, who envisioned a way for artists to exchange their creations without monetary transactions. The concept quickly gained global popularity, fostering artistic expression and collaboration. Today, ATCs are celebrated as an inclusive and accessible way to share art and build connections within creative communities.
Sacred Parlour Presented by the Oratory
Pay-what-you-may (proceeds go to facilitators), please register, 18+
What does “faith” look like without religion? What does “worship” look like outside of a building? On August 17, 24, and 31, wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you’re invited to explore these questions at The Oratory Presents: Sacred Parlour. A reimagined third space for those seeking connection without labels or liturgy, dogma or discrimination, come enjoy an intentional and intimate setting wrapped in music, message, and meaning. Bring a journal, friend, and open heart.
Recess Camp for Adults: Save the Camp!
$12, please register, camp for adults!
Adult Recess Camp is closing due to lack of (fun)ds - we’re going to Camp Director to save our camp.
Recess Calgary values community. Our community is brought together by adults who simply want to have more play in their week. Play happens by having a bunch of people willing to embrace their inner child, be open to new friendships and get exercise (with a bit of competitive spirit).
Our only ask to participate is an inclusive, open attitude that is welcoming to all types of people, athletic ability and care for how you show up to have fun. If you’re looking for an untraditional, semi structured way to meet people, exercise and just be a kid, Recess Calgary is the place. Come out once, twice a month or every week and be a part of our community.
The Social Artistry Method: Social Alchemy Workshop and Design Lab
Social Alchemy Workshops are held Friday afternoons (1:00pm - 3:00pm) during the month of August. Together you can share, experiment and practice your unique facilitation skills, gather feedback and leave inspired. The workshops are intended for anyone who wants to deepen their facilitation practice whether you're a newbie or seasoned facilitator. All are welcome. Taught by artists-in-residence Coach T. and Pricilla Cherry.
Each workshop we'll explore the social artistry method.
Who Can Participate?
Everyone can participate including those involved in,
Community Development
Mental Health
Arts & Social Change
Religion
Design Thinking
Event Planning
If you're interested to learn about your unique creative power as a facilitator these labs are for you!
What is the Social Artisty Method?
Using the analogy of the traditional Scientific Method
Observation
What do you know, what does your experience inform your practice
How do you convene and hold space for others
Research
What are you interested to share, how to convene.
Impact
Intention and impact
Experiment
Practice your facilitation skills
Express creativity
Analysis
Feedback from your peers
Utilizing imagiantion
Invitiation
Who do you connect with?
How do you access your impact?
Where ever your find yourself along the continuumn of the social artistry method you're welcome to participate and encouraged to come learn and explore
Ingredients to Social Alchemy?
Social Alchemy Workshops are based from the ongoing work of the Exhibit of Social at Sparrow ArtsSpace. At the month long exhibit artistic research is being explored to deepen an understanding of social artisty. The learnings from the exhbit will be embedded into the workshop series!
The Oratory presents Sacred Parlour
Pay-what-you-may (proceeds go to facilitators), please register, 18+
What does “faith” look like without religion? What does “worship” look like outside of a building? On August 17, 24, and 31, wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you’re invited to explore these questions at The Oratory Presents: Sacred Parlour. A reimagined third space for those seeking connection without labels or liturgy, dogma or discrimination, come enjoy an intentional and intimate setting wrapped in music, message, and meaning. Bring a journal, friend, and open heart.
OFFERINGS
August 17: Jill Drader + book giveaway (guest speaker) x Tobi Sinclair (musical guest)
August 24: Roby Maurice (guest speaker and musical guest)
August 31: Tyson Bankert (guest speaker) x Kindé (musical guest)
Recess Camp for Adults: Spooky Campfire Stories
$12, please register, camp for adults!
Sit around the fire and share spooky stories with Coach T. from Recess Calgary.
Recess Calgary values community. Our community is brought together by adults who simply want to have more play in their week. Play happens by having a bunch of people willing to embrace their inner child, be open to new friendships and get exercise (with a bit of competitive spirit).
Our only ask to participate is an inclusive, open attitude that is welcoming to all types of people, athletic ability and care for how you show up to have fun. If you’re looking for an untraditional, semi structured way to meet people, exercise and just be a kid, Recess Calgary is the place. Come out once, twice a month or every week and be a part of our community.
The Social Artistry Method: Social Alchemy Workshop and Design Lab
Social Alchemy Workshops are held Friday afternoons (1:00pm - 3:00pm) during the month of August. Together you can share, experiment and practice your unique facilitation skills, gather feedback and leave inspired. The workshops are intended for anyone who wants to deepen their facilitation practice whether you're a newbie or seasoned facilitator. All are welcome. Taught by artists-in-residence Coach T. and Pricilla Cherry.
Each workshop we'll explore the social artistry method.
Who Can Participate?
Everyone can participate including those involved in,
Community Development
Mental Health
Arts & Social Change
Religion
Design Thinking
Event Planning
If you're interested to learn about your unique creative power as a facilitator these labs are for you!
What is the Social Artisty Method?
Using the analogy of the traditional Scientific Method
Observation
What do you know, what does your experience inform your practice
How do you convene and hold space for others
Research
What are you interested to share, how to convene.
Impact
Intention and impact
Experiment
Practice your facilitation skills
Express creativity
Analysis
Feedback from your peers
Utilizing imagiantion
Invitiation
Who do you connect with?
How do you access your impact?
Where ever your find yourself along the continuumn of the social artistry method you're welcome to participate and encouraged to come learn and explore
Ingredients to Social Alchemy?
Social Alchemy Workshops are based from the ongoing work of the Exhibit of Social at Sparrow ArtsSpace. At the month long exhibit artistic research is being explored to deepen an understanding of social artisty. The learnings from the exhbit will be embedded into the workshop series!
Recess Camp for Adults: Neighbourhood Playground Tour
$12, please register, camp for adults!
Come play at a series of playgrounds in the Bridgeland Neighbourhood with Coach T. from Recess Calgary.
Recess Calgary values community. Our community is brought together by adults who simply want to have more play in their week. Play happens by having a bunch of people willing to embrace their inner child, be open to new friendships and get exercise (with a bit of competitive spirit).
Our only ask to participate is an inclusive, open attitude that is welcoming to all types of people, athletic ability and care for how you show up to have fun. If you’re looking for an untraditional, semi structured way to meet people, exercise and just be a kid, Recess Calgary is the place. Come out once, twice a month or every week and be a part of our community.
The Social Artistry Method: Social Alchemy Workshop and Design Lab
Social Alchemy Workshops are held Friday afternoons (1:00pm - 3:00pm) during the month of August. Together you can share, experiment and practice your unique facilitation skills, gather feedback and leave inspired. The workshops are intended for anyone who wants to deepen their facilitation practice whether you're a newbie or seasoned facilitator. All are welcome. Taught by artists-in-residence Coach T. and Pricilla Cherry.
Each workshop we'll explore the social artistry method.
Who Can Participate?
Everyone can participate including those involved in,
Community Development
Mental Health
Arts & Social Change
Religion
Design Thinking
Event Planning
If you're interested to learn about your unique creative power as a facilitator these labs are for you!
What is the Social Artisty Method?
Using the anaology of the traditional Scientific Method
Observation
What do you know, what does your experience inform your practice
How do you convene and hold space for others
Research
What are you interested to share, how to convene.
Impact
Intention and impact
Experiment
Practice your facilitation skills
Express creativity
Analysis
Feedback from your peers
Utilizing imagiantion
Invitiation
Who do you connect with?
How do you access your impact?
Where ever your find yourself along the continuumn of the social artistry method you're welcome to participate and encouraged to come learn and explore
Ingredients to Social Alchemy?
Social Alchemy Workshops are based from the ongoing work of the Exhibit of Social at Sparrow ArtsSpace. At the month long exhibit artistic research is being explored to deepen an understanding of social artisty. The learnings from the exhbit will be embedded into the workshop series!
Stitch & B.I.T.C.H (Brave, Inspired, Thriving, Connected, Healing) Circle
FREE - please register, for Women ages 18+
Sitch & B.I.T.C.H Circle (Bold, Inspired, Thriving, Connected, Healing)
A cozy, come-as-you-choose space for WOMEN only who crave connection, creativity, and candid conversations. Whether you are stitching, creating, conspiring, or sipping tea and taking it all in, this is the space for you.
What to expect
a warm and welcoming vibe where every woman belongs
zero pressure, all presence -bring a project or start one here
Honest chats, deep belly laughs, soft moments and shared stories
a community built for us, by us, where care, creativity, support, and colle
Please note that this is a CHILDREN free space
Opening Party for The Oratory and Recess Calgary Exhibit of Social Artistry
Priscilla and Coach T. invite you to a special opening, Exhibit of Social Artisty, in celebration of our month long extravaganza at Sparrow ArtsSpace! The kickoff will be something to experience, be one of the first to immerse yourself in practicing the art of social artisty. We can't wait to welcome you!
Come to play, reflect, and connect.
What is Social Artisty?
Social artistry practice describes art that is collaborative, often participatory and involves people as the medium or material of the work.
Social art is the application of arts and creativity towards the transformation of individuals, groups and societies by working with your target audience as opposed to for them.
A social artist is someone who is part artist, part social-change agent, part facilitator and part visionary. The social artist draws on artistic practice, group dynamics and creative ideas to facilitate change.
What a canvas is to a Painter, what a stage is for a Dancer or a lens to a Filmmaker, Community is to a Social Artist.
Agenda:
6:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Doors Open
6:40 PM - 7:00 PM: Intros
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Talk Back: Residency Corner
7:30 PM - 7:50 PM: Cherry Check In
7:50 PM - 8:00 PM: Worksheet Guide
8:00 PM - 8:50 PM: Practice the Art of Social Artistry
8:50 PM - 9:00 PM: End
Painting with Embroidery on Canvas
FREE - please register, for adults & kids 8+ (accompanied by an adult)
Join us for a fun evening of painting and creativity. No experience is necessary - our talented instructors will guide you through creating your own masterpiece on canvas. All materials will be provided, just bring yourself and your creativity! Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, this event is perfect for everyone. Come relax, socialize, and unleash your inner artist with Painting with Embroidery on Canvas!
Weaving Wall Hanging Workshop
$25 - please register, for adults and kids 8+ (accompanied by an adult)
Come join us at Sparrow Artspace for a fun and creative event where you can learn how to create your very own wall hanging through the art of weaving! This hands-on workshop will teach you various weaving techniques to make a unique and beautiful piece of art for your home. No prior experience is necessary - all skill levels are welcome! Materials will be provided, just bring your creativity and enthusiasm. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn a new craft and meet fellow art enthusiasts. See you there! Taught by Roots & Threads Collective!
Artists Trading Cards for NEWCOMERS
Calling all NEWCOMERS to Canada or Calgary!
FREE - please register, All ages welcome (accompanied by an adult), no experience necessary. Organized in conjunction with the Calgary Women's Centre!
Join us at Sparrow Artspace for a fun and creative event where you can make and trade your own Artists Trading Cards with other newcomers in Calgary! This is a great way to meet fellow newcomers and creatives, share your work, and connect with the local art community. All suplies will be provided.
Board members Yiting Hui and Sandra Neill will be in attendance to answer any questions about our artists-in-residence program and connect newcomers to other artists resources in the community!
What Are Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)?
Artist Trading Cards are miniature works of art measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches—the size of a standard playing card. Originating in the 1990s, the ATC movement began in Switzerland with artist M. Vänçi Stirnemann, who envisioned a way for artists to exchange their creations without monetary transactions. The concept quickly gained global popularity, fostering artistic expression and collaboration. Today, ATCs are celebrated as an inclusive and accessible way to share art and build connections within creative communities.
Glass painting on Frame Workshop
$25 - please register, for adults and kids 8+ (accompanied by an adult)
Welcome to the Glass painting on Frame workshop at Sparrow Artspace! Join us on Thu Jul 17, 2025 at 5:00 PM for a fun and creative evening. Let your artistic side shine as you paint on glass frames and create unique masterpieces. No experience is necessary, just bring your creativity and enthusiasm. This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to unwind, socialize, and explore your artistic talents. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to express yourself through glass painting! See you there! Taught by Roots & Threads Collective!
Magic of Alcohol Ink Art in Landscape Workshop
$25 - please register, for adults & kids 8+ (accompanied by an adult)
Welcome to Magic of Alcohol Ink Art in Landscape! Join us at Sparrow Artspace for a creative and fun in-person event where you'll learn the mesmerizing techniques of alcohol ink art in landscape settings. Let your imagination run wild as you create stunning pieces inspired by nature. This event is perfect for both beginners and experienced artists looking to explore a new medium. Come and unleash your creativity in a vibrant and supportive environment. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to learn and connect with fellow art enthusiasts! Taught by Roots & Threads Collective!
Paper Mache Plate Workshop
FREE - please register, Adults & kids 8+ (accompanied by an adult)
Let's get our hands dirty and create beautiful paper mache plates together!nnNo experience necessary - just bring your creativity and enthusiasm. We'll provide all the materials you need to make a one-of-a-kind plate to take home. Taught by Roots & Threads Collective!
Stitch & B.I.T.C.H (Brave, Inspired, Thriving, Connected, Healing) Circle
FREE - please register, for Women ages 18+
Sitch & B.I.T.C.H Circle (Bold, Inspired, Thriving, Connected, Healing)
A cozy, come-as-you-choose space for WOMEN only who crave connection, creativity, and candid conversations. Whether you are stitching, creating, conspiring, or sipping tea and taking it all in, this is the space for you.
What to expect
a warm and welcoming vibe where every woman belongs
zero pressure, all presence -bring a project or start one here
Honest chats, deep belly laughs, soft moments and shared stories
a community built for us, by us, where care, creativity, support, and colle
Please note that this is a CHILDREN free space
Photography Print Exchange
Calling all photography enthusiasts! Join us for a fun and interactive Photography Print Exchange, where local photographers of all levels can connect, learn, and share their passion for the art of photography.
Admission Free! Just bring a print to participate. You can also print your photo during the event for $10. *Due to a venue capacity of 24 people, registration is strictly required. You will be turned away if you do not have a ticket.
How the Print Exchange Works 1️⃣ Print an 8x10 Photo (or similar size) Bring one printed photo (you can print at the event for $10/print). Place it in an envelope or upside down and leave it anonymous—no names written! 2️⃣ Print Exchange All prints will be placed face down on a table. Each participant will randomly select a photo. (If you get your own, just swap it for another!) 3️⃣ Show & Tell Share the photo you picked with the group. The photographer who created it will briefly talk about their work.
Why Join? Learn the Printing Process: Many photographers have never printed their work before—this is a great way to start!
Share your work: Showcase your photography to your fellow artists in a physical and in-person format. You also get to take home someone else's unique print!
Build Community: Meet and connect with other photographers in a collaborative and supportive environment. No matter your skill level, this event is a fantastic way to celebrate the art of photography and share your creativity with others. Don’t miss out—see you there!
Photography For Beginners
Ages 16+, $30 - please register
📸 Want to take control of your camera and capture better photos? Join us for a hands-on workshop designed for beginners looking to learn the fundamentals of photography!
What You’ll Learn:
In this interactive session, we’ll cover:
✅ The Exposure Triangle – Understanding aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
✅ How to shoot in manual mode for full creative control
✅ Practical tips and exercises to improve your photography skills
What to Bring:
📷 A DSLR, mirrorless, or any camera with manual mode is highly recommended.
📱 Using a phone? Download a camera app (e.g. Lightroom) that allows manual settings.
Healing Memories Through Art Workshop
FREE - please register, no art experience necessary, 18+
Welcome to the Healing Memories Through Art Workshop! Join us at Sparrow Artspace in Calgary for a workshop celebrating the transformative power of art in our lives. This workshop is designed to help you explore and heal past memories through artistic expression.
Facilitated by Artist Honey Jalali and Art Therapists Allan Rosales, this workshop is designed to offer a deeply supportive, reflective, and enriching experience for participants. We seek to create a space of care, creativity, and collective healing - nurturing resilience and celebrating the beauty of shared stories.
About the Facilitators
Honey Jalali is an Iranian contemporary activist artist based in Calgary, Alberta, since December 2020. She works across various mediums including installation, digital and acrylic painting, poetry, collage, and photography. Her creative expression derives from her thoughts, fears and dreams.
She obtained a Master’s Degree in Visual Communication at the Art and Architecture Azad University of Tehran and has been teaching visual arts at the university level for 15 years. Ever since her relocation to Calgary was quickly followed by the pandemic, she has continued with her art practice, including participating in Arts Commons’ RBC Emerging Artist and ICAI mentorship program.
Honey believes in art therapy that serves as a tool for healing. She explores memories, good and bad, through creative multimedia artworks. She wants to show stories about individuals, humanity, suffering, love, and real life all over the world.
Allan Rosales is an artist whose multi-disciplinary practice includes poetry, portraits and public art in relationship with the Filipinx Community of Calgary. He also holds a master’s degree in Art Therapy from Concordia University. Having worked extensively throughout Calgary as a community connector, Allan joined the Calgary Arts Development team as Community Investment Manager in 2023, approaching the role from the perspective of the artist.
Alcove Photo Club Exhibition Opening Reception
Join us on Thursday, June 6 from 6–9 PM at Sparrow ArtSpace for the Opening Reception of Alcove Photo Club’s very first exhibition! This show shines a light on Calgary’s emerging photographers — a talented crew of hobbyists, amateurs, and passionate visual storytellers. You’ll see a mix of perspectives, moments, and moods captured through fresh eyes and openshutters. Expect good vibes, good snacks, and even some live music as we toast to a month-long celebration of local photography. Bring your friends, your family, or just your curiosity — all are welcome and it's totally free. The exhibition will remain on view at Sparrow for the entire month of June, so if you can’t make the opening, don’t worry — the art will still be waiting for you!
Pillow Fort Sessions Wrap-up
Fundraiser by donation: pay what you can at the door (cash, e-transfer, card). We appreciate your support taking this project to the next level.
Space is limited—email ashley.and.arran@gmail.com to reserve your spot!
Casual show and tell of Pillow Fort Sessions month long residency. Come see what we’ve been working on! Drinks and light refreshments provided.
Artists Trading Cards for NEWCOMERS
Calling all NEWCOMERS to Canada or Calgary!
FREE - please register, All ages welcome (accompanied by an adult), no experience necessary. Organized in conjunction with the Calgary Women's Centre!
Join us at Sparrow Artspace for a fun and creative event where you can make and trade your own Artists Trading Cards with other newcomers in Calgary! This is a great way to meet fellow newcomers and creatives, share your work, and connect with the local art community. All suplies will be provided.
Board members Yiting Hui and Sandra Neill will be in attendance to answer any questions about our artists-in-residence program and connect newcomers to other artists resources in the community!
What Are Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)?
Artist Trading Cards are miniature works of art measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches—the size of a standard playing card. Originating in the 1990s, the ATC movement began in Switzerland with artist M. Vänçi Stirnemann, who envisioned a way for artists to exchange their creations without monetary transactions. The concept quickly gained global popularity, fostering artistic expression and collaboration. Today, ATCs are celebrated as an inclusive and accessible way to share art and build connections within creative communities.