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Studio Red, the Revolutionary Art Centre

TUESDAY, 28 JULY 2009


Studio Red, a popular space in Toronto's art mecca, The Junction, is responding to the needs of its patrons. Local film, theatre, and visual artists come here to connect, network, brainstorm, receive or give critiques, show art, rent studio space to work in, promote, learn new skills, meet seasoned professionals, and attend arts workshops. Regular music, exhibition, and comedy events bring creative people together. But in these times of economic fear and stress, Studio Red founders have noticed that health is sometimes on an artist's backburner.

The arts have been hit hard by the recession, and so Canada's creative industries have taken a crash. Many in these fields are self-employed and don't have full medical coverage, or spare change to prioritize health. Some have developed unhealthy diets and lifestyles (or addictions) to cope with stress. Local artists and owners James Banos and Svjetlana Jaklenec believe that everyone coming through those doors can create better if they are healthy and knowledge-empowered.

Jaklenec and Banos say that's why Studio Red is reopening on July 18 as an arts and wellness commune, a place to "inspire confidence and optimism" among patrons. Studio Red will be offering seminars and panels, and other supports in health subjects like yoga, pilates, and nutrition on the go. Giving artists a place to voice their concerns and learn more about living healthy will foster self-esteem and healthier communities. "We are developing a new unique concept of an art commune," says Jaklenec, "building on the oldest philosophy: healthy mind is healthy body! Everyone can create better with a healthy body and mind."

Access to wellness information and resources, as well as a support network, will mean optimal creativity, endurance and ability to cope with stress at a time when the creative workforce is really feeling a crunch. "Artists often feel a lack of support from organizations, agencies or other artists. It's very hard to dismantle the belief that there is only a very small pie of success available, says Jaklenec. "We want to change that belief. The more people go for and get a piece of the pie, the more popular the bakery - Canadian art scene - will become- and there will be enough for all of us! We will create our own opportunities."

source: http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

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