People often ask me why I volunteer at Silver Spring Studio, and honestly, I could talk about it all day. It’s one of the warmest, most uplifting places I’ve ever been—a space where creativity and community blend into something genuinely meaningful.
The studio welcomes individuals with a wide range of abilities, and every class feels like a reminder of why art matters. Not the fancy-gallery type of art, but the human kind—the kind made with joy, focus, curiosity, and sometimes a little bit of chaos. My favourite kind.
When I teach there, my goal isn’t to produce perfect projects. It’s to open doors. To encourage experimentation. To give students the freedom to make mistakes and still feel proud of what they create. For some, art class is a highlight of their week—a place where they’re seen, heard, and encouraged. For others, it’s a chance to build skills or confidence. And for a few, it’s simply fun, and that is more than enough.
Volunteering has also shaped how I design my products and run my business. Seeing what helps people engage with art—clear instructions, accessible tools, low-pressure activities, bright visuals—has completely changed my approach. It has made me a better teacher, a better designer, and honestly, a better person.
The best part? The sense of community. The laughter. The moments when someone creates something they didn’t think they were capable of. The shared excitement over a finished project. The quiet focus in the room on a good day.
Silver Spring Studio isn’t just a place where people make art. It’s a place where people feel capable, supported, and included.
Lisa Solonynko: Make Life Colourful 