VIEWS
VIEWS: MY Rising at McGregor Park
The 2025 iteration of VIEWS (Vision of Inspiring & Empowering Walls in Scarborough) took place from July 21 to October 20, 2025 at McGregor Park Community Centre in Scarborough.
VIEWS is a free mural creation and professional development program for youth ages 14–29 that explores and documents the stories of neighbourhoods and communities. Through collaboration with community artists and mentors, youth reimagine and transform public spaces across Scarborough—from recreation centres to libraries and schools.
Participants take part in weekly workshops focused on community consultation, storytelling, mural design, and painting techniques, while developing their creative voices and leadership skills. The program fosters confidence, connection, and artistic growth, empowering youth to create murals that reflect community stories, values, and visions for the future.
PAST VIEWS PROJECTS
VIEWS: L’Amour Grande (2023)
Youth participants infuse colour into the basement walls of the L’Amoreaux Community Centre in North Scarborough to create a more inviting and inspiring environment for youth.
VIEWS: GOLDEN GIRLS (2022)
Youth participants document stories of the extraordinary women in the rapidly gentrifying Golden Mile neighbourhood through colourful murals in O’Connor Community Centre.
PARTICIPANT TESTIMONIALS
“I had such an amazing experience being part of the VIEWS program with Next Generation Arts and would recommend it to anyone looking to feel supported and progress in their journey with art! Not only did we end up painting a beautiful mural, but made new friends and connections I know I can turn to anytime! Thank you Next Generation Arts!”
“I really enjoyed my experience in VIEWS! I was a little nervous to go on the first day because I didn’t know anyone and didn’t really know what to expect, but I immediately felt at ease when I was greeted by one of the coordinators. Being able to just chill and paint and talk to like-minded people was really calming. As one of the younger participants there, I was able to get a lot of advice and encouragement in pursuing arts post-secondary and the whole environment was just super supportive. Being able to contribute and be part of the community was really special for me because there’s not as much of that in downtown Toronto where I’m from. I also thought it was cool how VIEWS did an exhibit with all the participants’ paintings at the end to showcase everyone’s individual expressions. Overall, I think I grew a lot from this program.”
“As a result of the skills gained from the Next Generation Arts Program, such as blending techniques, using reference photos, painting from life, and mixing colours to create unique combinations, I have recently enrolled in Seneca College art fundamentals program where I am able to apply and further enhance these skills. The knowledge and experience gained from the program have played a crucial role in my artistic development. I am happy to share that I received an A for making exceptional progress in class, and I am confident that this progress will contribute to further growth and development of my artistic skills.”