What’s going on here?

Last year around this time, I came across a video from the MacKenzie Art Gallery that stopped me mid-scroll.

There were women—immigrant women—sitting together, chatting, painting, and laughing. You could feel the warmth in the room. I remember thinking, what’s going on here?

I learned that this gathering was a program offered by MacKenzie, called Recreation through Art & Life Skills (REALI), which helps newcomer women connect, build friendships, and find community in a new place—all through art. Art was the reason they came together, but what was really being created was belonging. I was so moved, and honestly, amazed that this was all happening inside an art gallery.

I reached out to learn more and soon found myself sitting down with the MacKenzie team over coffee. They told me about other programs the Gallery offers—how it’s so much more than art hanging on the walls. One program that really caught my attention was the Regina Arts Youth Network (RAYN). It brings together young people who are interested in art and gives them space to learn, explore, and lead.

A few months later, I joined one of RAYN’s community nights where people were invited to make and trade small artist trading cards. The room was packed. Music was playing, art supplies were everywhere, and people of all ages were creating, talking, and laughing. It was community in its purest form.

As a former teacher, watching those young people create reminded me of my late husband, Doug, and the many students we taught over the years. Doug and I taught in the same high school, and we always kept an eye out for those kids with that special but sometimes quiet spark—curious, creative, at times a little unsure, and just needing a bit of encouragement—but full of potential. We all know one of these kids, and seeing that same spark shining in this program, I knew I wanted to be part of it.

That’s when I decided to support the Gallery and its programs like RAYN.

Because I believe in what the MacKenzie Art Gallery does—for young people, for newcomers, for all of us. It’s a place that welcomes everyone and uses art to connect, to heal, and to inspire. I hope you’ll join me in supporting this incredible work. Your gift—no matter the size—helps the MacKenzie continue to create spaces where art brings people together, and community takes shape in the most beautiful ways. Because when art brings us together, something truly extraordinary happens.

Sincerely,

Barbara Mader, Friend to RAYN and the MacKenzie Art Gallery.

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ABOUT REALI

At the MacKenzie Art Gallery, we believe art can be a powerful tool for building connection, confidence, and community. The Recreation and Life Skills (REALI) program is offered in partnership with the Regina Immigrant Women Centre (RIWC) and supports immigrant and refugee women—and their children—through a welcoming, creativity-focused environment. MacKenzie Art Gallery Facilitators lead hands-on art workshops designed to spark creativity and encourage self-expression, while RIWC provides conversation circles, practical life-skills training, and information on navigating community resources. A Social Worker from RIWC is present at each session to offer on-site support. Free child-minding ensures families can participate fully.

ABOUT RAYN

The Regina Arts Youth Network (RAYN) is a youth-led creative leadership program for young people aged 14 to 20 across the city. Working closely with Gallery staff and professional artists, participants get hands-on experience behind the scenes at both the MacKenzie Art Gallery and the Dunlop Art Gallery. RAYN creates an immersive and supportive environment where youth can explore artmaking, develop leadership skills, and collaborate as a creative collective. Through planning programs, assisting with events, and engaging with the community, participants build confidence while gaining valuable communication, teamwork, and project-management skills. RAYN helps young people discover their passions, build meaningful connections, and grow as leaders—both inside and beyond the arts.