The City Hall Rotunda in Toronto recently witnessed a vibrant celebration of youth creativity through the Thrive & Shine exhibition. Through an innovative collaboration between the City of Toronto's Arts & Culture Services and Thrive Youth, the exhibition ran from November 19th to 23rd, captivating visitors with its powerful display of artworks created by children of all abilities from several of Toronto’s priority communities.
As the exhibit concludes its inspiring run, we reflect on the impact it had—not just on the young artists but also on the community that came together to celebrate their talent and resilience.
A Platform for Expression
Thrive & Shine was more than an art exhibition—it was a testament to the strength and creativity of young voices. The pieces on display, from bold abstracts to heartfelt depictions of everyday life, told stories of growth, hope, and transformation.
The artworks were created by children participating in Thrive Youth’s Toronto programs, including the Learn Create Explore and Build to Change program streams. These programs provide opportunities for young people to discover their talents, build confidence, and develop a sense of belonging.
“Seeing the smiles and pride on the children’s faces as they showed their work on such an elevated platform was unforgettable,” shared Pari Rajagopalan, Thrive Youth’s President & CEO. “It reinforced our belief in the power of art to empower, inspire, and uplift.”
Building Connections Through Art
Throughout the exhibition, hundreds of visitors engaged with the pieces and the stories behind them. A special reception was held on November 20th, with opening remarks from Aderonke Akande, the City of Toronto’s Director of Arts and Culture Services, Renee Laforet of Thrive Youth’s Board of Directors, and participating young artist Carter.
Teachers, families, and local leaders alike praised the exhibition for providing a space where children could shine and for reminding the community of the importance of supporting youth voices.
Here’s a quick look into the projects our young artists engaged with to create the breathtaking pieces that were on display:
I SPY Me: Young artists explored self-expression and identity through watercolour landscapes, supported by artist-educator Cortney Stephenson, reflecting on their inner selves and how they fit into the larger community.
Me and Food Lino Printing: Young artists explored their cultural identities and connections to Toronto's diverse culinary landscape through food-themed lino prints.
MeDallions Clay Awards: Young artists created personalized medallions, expressing their unique identities and roles within their communities.
Picture US: Young artists explored self-expression and sustainability as they created upcycled frames with artist-educator Ilona Valcov of Upmade, reflecting on their roles as young citizens of Toronto.
Reach for the Stars Mural: Young artists with diverse needs celebrated their big dreams and the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive community within Toronto, supported by artist-educator Rachel Babineau.
Superheroes of Toronto: Young artists envisioned themselves as superheroes, using art to address social issues and contribute to a better future for Toronto, supported by artist-educator Renier Torres Calvo. Delivered in partnership with Art Starts TO.
Unmasking Identity: Young artists designed masks that revealed their unique identities, passions, and dreams, showcasing the diversity of Toronto's youth.
Welcome to Regent Park: Young artists created zines that celebrated the diversity, inclusion, and kindness of their neighborhood, contributing to a positive image of their community within Toronto.
Emotional Blobs: Young artists expressed their emotions through abstract art, exploring the range of human experiences within the context of their lives in Toronto.
I Have Space!: Young artists with diverse needs created personal silhouettes, expressing their emotions and identities through accessible artmaking.
Looking Ahead
While the Thrive & Shine exhibition has ended, its impact will resonate for years to come. The young artists who participated have not only shared their talents with the city but have also gained valuable skills and confidence to carry forward.
Thrive Youth is committed to continuing its mission of empowering children through programs that foster creativity, leadership, and resilience. This exhibition was just one chapter in an ongoing story of transformation.
To everyone who visited Thrive & Shine, thank you for supporting these young artists and their journey. Your encouragement helps them thrive—and shine—even brighter.
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