Persephone Theatre and Saskatoon Open Door Society Partner to Celebrate Newcomer Artists
Saskatoon, SK – Persephone Theatre and the Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS), through its THREADS: Cultural Conversations initiative, are collaborating on a special event recognizing the creativity, resilience, and artistic contributions of newcomer artists in Canada.
On June 12 at 5:30 p.m., Persephone and SODS will host THREADS at Persephone: Newcomers Navigating Creativity in Canada at the Remai Arts Centre. The event will explore the opportunities and challenges faced by newcomer artists while celebrating their contributions to Saskatoon’s cultural landscape.
Presented through THREADS: Cultural Conversations, the evening will feature speakers, special guests, spoken word poetry, discussions, and a showcase of works by 10 newcomer artists. Through art and storytelling, the event aims to foster meaningful dialogue and strengthen connections between communities.
A highlight of the evening will be a panel discussion with newcomer artists and leaders from local arts communities. Panelists will share their experiences navigating Canada’s arts sector, discuss opportunities and barriers for newcomer artists, and explore ways to create more inclusive and accessible creative spaces. Panelists include Wendy Nelson, Executive Director of CARFAC Saskatchewan; Judy White, Professor Emerita at the University of Regina whose research focuses on community work and mental health; and newcomer artists Yasaman Tarighatmanesh and Lautaro Reyes.
“Through this collaboration with Persephone Theatre, we are creating space for newcomer and immigrant artists to share their stories, perspectives, and creative voices with the wider community,” said Ahmad Majid, Fund Development and Communications Manager at Saskatoon Open Door Society. “Art has a powerful way of helping people see one another more fully, and this exhibition reflects the heart of our work at SODS: building connection, belonging, and understanding across cultures.”
The visual art exhibition will spotlight diverse voices and creative expression, bringing together artists whose works reflect identity, culture, and lived experience.
“We are delighted to be working with Saskatoon Open Door Society to host this fabulous evening of celebration of the creativity and artistry that newcomers have brought with them to our community,” said Heather Cant, Artistic Director at Persephone Theatre. “The wealth of creativity and diversity of our local artists makes Saskatoon a truly vibrant place to live.
“We are looking forward to welcoming the community at large to this event to get to connect with the art and experiences of newcomer artists that are choosing to make their home here in Saskatoon.”
Everyone is welcome to attend this free event and enjoy the art created by newcomers.
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For more information or to book an interview, please contact:
Jodi Schellenberg, Director of Marketing & Communications
306-384-2126 ext. 237
[email protected]
Ahmad Majid, Fund Development and Communications Manager
Saskatoon Open Door Society
306-653-4464 ext.234
[email protected]
