ArtWill Studio

About

In a relaxing and creative studio environment, experiment with a variety of art materials and techniques, while learning the language of art.

Story

Deirdre Potash is an arts educator, artist and writer with over thirty years of teaching experience, including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA), John Abbot College and International Language School of Canada.

“My objective is to awaken passion in my students….. I want to show them a new way to see. I want to open up avenues for self-discovery. I want them to have fun.”

Like the MMFA, Deirdre teaches a wide range of groups, ranging from those mentally and physically challenged, in day centers, hospitals, school groups, adults of all ages and walks of life, corporate team building and educators.

Deirdre is the founder of ArtWill Studio that provides children and adults with creativity workshops. Her Art Comes to School program provides bilingual art experiences to teachers and students of all ages in Quebec and Ontario, with a focus on those who don’t have access to cultural centres or arts education. Her programs are based on cross-curricular and integrated learning, often highlighting environmental, antidiscrimination, literacy, numeracy and critical thinking and easily adapted to students with special education needs.

She continues to be a mentor as well as a guest speaker at Concordia University.

As an artist, she regularly shows her work, including at the MMFA and Galleries. Presently, her paintings are on display at The Gryphon d'Or Tea Room and The Vaudreuil-Soulanges Palliative Care Residence.

“I want to have a lasting impact on my students. I want them to acquire techniques and an openness that they will be able to apply to their lives. More than anything, I want them to love making and looking at art. It makes us human.”

Mission

Cultural activities and workshops aimed at creating an opportunity to relax, share and create.
• Target audiences seniors, children, teenagers, families, etc.

Deirdre Potash is an art educator, writer, artist and facilitator, with a diverse practice including a specialty in cultural mediation. Introducing and establishing art programs, working with a diverse clientele, from children to seniors in public and private institutions from elementary to university, community groups, business environments and health and mental health institutions. Acting as curator, organizer and manager Deirdre lives her dream.