Studio Q holds safe space for queer and two spirit youth to come work on art projects

The Prism Project in downtown Prince Albert hosted their Queerative Night Open Studio at Studio Q on Thursday Sept. 10 to create a safe space for queer and two spirit people and youth to work on their ongoing art projects.

People at the event on Thursday said that the open space was beneficial to them and they were able to do ribbon skirt making and several other creative pursuits.

“It might be really scary and you might not know how it’s going to go, but it’s very much work it to come out and find your people if you can,” said Kohlby Beaven, who attended the Queerative Night on Thursday. “I haven’t found PA to be the most safe space in the past, but we’re growing and changing all the time.”

Beaven came to the Queerative Open Studio to connect with community and visit with friends while working on an art project.

Studio Q has been a popular venue for live music, such as punk shows, bringing a crowd of all ages, which is Beaven’s favourite event, and where they often volunteer.

Beaven says programming and events in Studio Q are meant to foster a place of community and a safe space for queer and indigenous youth to express themselves, especially if they don’t receive that support at home or other communities.

“Prince Albert isn’t always known for its acceptance, so it’s good to have people you can trust in PA and people who are safe for you and especially the queer and indigenous youth,” Beaven said.

Beaven invites anyone, especially queer youth in Prince Albert to come and meet the community, and describes the space as a great place to find friendships and form connections.

“I love the Studio Q community, besides finding my friends in highschool, this has been the one place where I happened to find lots of friends, acquaintances, it’s just so welcoming,” said Beaven.

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