Claudia Salguero has created more than 30 community murals in Ottawa.

Arts education has been a critical part of Jennifer Cayley’s life work, both as co-founder of MASC and as a teller of tales in community and educational settings. She has told stories in schools, libraries, community centres, and performance festivals across the country.

Yvon Soglo has been dancing for over 10 years, during which time he has become known as one of Canada’s top street dancers.

Emily Rose Michaud is an interdisciplinary artist and educator working at the crossroads of community organization, ecology, and civic participation.

Here, Jacqui talks about creating opportunities for performers of colour in Ottawa’s theatre scene and providing a safe space for vulnerability in young storytellers.

Le R Premier: “While it is true that the arts often mirror the world we live in, the arts must above all embody the positive transformations that we would like to see in the world, in addition to denouncing injustice.”

Eleanor Crowder is an award-winning actor, playwright, and director. She is a member of several artist collectives, including Bear & Co., Calalou, The Skin Songs Collective, and The AWAY Collective. With MASC, Eleanor works in classrooms to explore text and dramatic creation.

MASC artist Tina Le Moine has lived and worked in animation in Vancouver and Montreal, and she now resides in Ottawa spending her time teaching animation, creating, and enjoying life.

Amanda Lewis: “I wanted the children to know that they could continue learning and having fun, but most importantly I wanted them to feel seen and heard and valued. I wanted to give them a small sense of normalcy by continuing their relationship with a trusted and familiar instructor.”