Events
Our Story
Bridging Generations – A Cultural Tapestry in Art was born from a powerful idea: true inclusion is not about seeking permission to belong. It is about building new spaces where every generation, every culture, and every voice can create, connect, and thrive together. Through art, we are shaping a collective space that celebrates diversity, honors heritage, and fosters unity across communities.
This vision began with Ava Jasmine Dedier, a 17-year-old visual artist who recognized a profound gap in representation and opportunity within the art world. Rather than waiting for change, Ava became the catalyst. She transformed her lived experiences into a platform that uplifts young, diverse voices and creates lasting bridges between generations.
To expand this mission, Ava founded R.IS.E Collective Canada Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion through innovative, youth-driven initiatives. R.I.S.E Collective is dedicated to empowering emerging artists and community leaders, providing them with the tools and spaces needed to shape the future on their own terms.
Bridging Generations is a living example of this commitment. It is more than an event. It is a movement rooted in creativity, pride, and collective transformation, inviting all generations to come together and reimagine what community, culture, and collaboration can truly be.
The Tour: Art in Motion
Experience the transformative power of art as we reimagine public spaces across Markham and The Greater York region. Through Bridging Generations, we will transform local libraries into vibrant, gallery-style fine art exhibitions — creating spaces where culture, creativity, and community come to life.
Our tour brings together diverse cultural expressions, hands-on workshops, and opportunities to connect with leading artists of all ages. Each stop invites you to witness the beauty of shared heritage, intergenerational storytelling, and artistic excellence — all in the heart of the community.
Join us as art moves beyond the canvas and into the soul of our neighborhoods.
Milliken Mills Library
Markham, ON
August 14th to August 17th, 2025
Opening Night 5:30pm to 8:30pm
*Exhibit viewing available during regular library hours
Angus Glen Library
Markham, ON
August 21st to August 24th, 2025
Opening Night 5:30pm to 8:30pm
*Exhibit viewing available during regular library hours*
Markham Village Library
Markham, ON
August 28th to August 31st, 2025
Opening Night 5:30pm to 8:30pm
*Exhibit viewing available during regular library hours*
Thornhill Village Library
Thornhill, ON
Workshop Themes
🎨 Calling All Artists of York Region!
- ✅ Open to ages 11 and up
- ✅ Win cash prizes, special awards, and mentorship from professional artists
- ✅ Get featured on our website, community exhibition sites and in our media promotions
- ✅ All 2D, 3D and mixed media artworks in all mediums welcome (max size 24" x 30")
This is your chance to be part of a cultural movement that unites generations and uplifts diverse voices through the arts.
Submissions open soon — get ready to create, connect, and inspire!
Community Impact
Bridging Generations is reshaping what community connection looks like. Through art, storytelling, and cultural celebration, our event empowers BIPOC artists and community members by creating spaces where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only highlighted but lived. We break down barriers between generations, cultures, and backgrounds, uniting people in a shared mission of creativity and pride.
Our exhibitions and workshops offer more than just artistic expression; they offer visibility, validation, and voice to underrepresented communities. Every interaction fosters understanding, every creation nurtures belonging, and every gathering builds bridges that strengthen the cultural fabric of our neighborhoods. Through intentional representation and real engagement, Bridging Generations becomes a catalyst for lasting community empowerment and collective growth.
Featured Artists
Ava Jasmine Dedier
Fei Lu
Candice Dixon
Tiffany Joy Villahermosa
Toni-Marie Ferreira