Hamilton’s Queer Art Workshop: Quartz at the AGH

Quarts is a welcoming space dedicated to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to
connect, bond and explore their creative side.

Each month, the Art Gallery of Hamilton hosts a self-guided art workshop called Quartz, specifically tailored for the 2SLGTBQIA+ community. This event aims to foster a welcoming
space for members of the queer community to explore their creativity.

Taking place on the first Thursday of every month, Quartz warmly welcomes participants of all ages, offering free admission and providing all necessary art materials. This initiative creates an accessible and inclusive space where queer individuals can engage in artistic expression and forge meaningful connections.

The concept for Quartz originated in 2022 with Tyler VanHolst, the AGH’s youth and wellness programs coordinator.

“We were talking about how at the time there weren’t, or we didn’t feel like, there were many dedicated queer spaces in the city,” said VanHolst.

What started as a casual discussion evolved into a successful recurring workshop, centered on art as a medium for queer expression and community building.

VanHolst shared that since its launch in August 2022, Quartz has seen significant growth in attendance. Initially drawing 30 to 40 participants per session, the workshop now hosts between 60 and 90 attendees each month, including visitors from neighbouring areas.

This success has been reinforced by connections with organizations like Speqtrum, a youth-focused program in the YWCA Hamilton. Speqtrum hosts various interactive workshops and social events for the 2SLGTBQIA+ community. VanHolst affirms the importance of the contributions of these organizations seen in providing staffing and community
outreach.

Quartz exemplifies the potential of fostering social connections and personal growth through art. Beyond skill development, the workshop nurtures a sense of belonging and solidarity among its diverse participants.

As the space is open to all ages, individuals can connect with potential role models, mentors and peer support in the 2SLGTBQIA+ community.

“We’ve had queer elders or seniors show up and we’ve had youth and teens show up with their families. So that to me is one of my favorite things to witness, a person and their people there with them,” said VanHolst.

These connections reflect the positive impact of inclusive environments where marginalized communities can freely express themselves and connect with peers who share similar experiences.

Quartz not only prioritizes community-building but validates and empowers its participants. The workshop welcomes friends and family members of guests to connect with the community and strengthen personal support systems.

The works encourages attendees to leave with a sense of validation in their identities. “I would hope that people would leave with validation in who they are,” said VanHolst.

Quartz is more than just an art workshop. It serves as a model of inclusivity and empowerment within the 2SLGTBQIA+ community. Its ongoing success demonstrates the growing demand for cultural spaces that embrace diversity and support queer individuals in expressing their identities through creative means.