Drawtober brings student artists together at Algonquin College
Sketchbooks, pencils and creative prompts filled a classroom at Algonquin College where the students gathered for Drawtober, a themed art night hosted by the Artists Circles Creatives Club.
The event provided participants with an opportunity to artwork, meet fellow artists and explore their creativity in a welcoming environment.
Held on Oct. 14, Drawtober encouraged students to use themed prompts as a starting point for their artwork while spending time with other members of the campus arts community.
Club leader Sebastian Frank said the club gives students a place to stay involved in creative activities outside of their academic studies.
“In a program that doesn’t really do art, I can come to the art club and meet people that are into creative things,” Frank said.
Open to students of all experience levels, the club places more value on the creative process than on technical ability, encouraging participants to focus on enjoying what they create.
Sash Ackehurst a first-time attendee, believes events like Drawtober have become increasingly valuable opportunities for artistic engagement on campus.
“With more and more art programs kind of closing down, it opens another door,” Ackehurst said.
For Vanessa Koster, who was attending for the second time, Drawtober offered a chance to step away from the demands of school and focus on a hobby she enjoys.
Beyond providing a creative outlet, Koster said events like Drawtober can also benefit students in other ways.
Koster said participation in artistic activities can support students’ mental health by giving them a productive outlet to relieve stress and disconnect from academic pressures.
According to Frank, the club hopes to continue hosting themed art nights throughout the semester, giving students additional opportunities to explore different creative interests.
Upcoming activities include a Halloween-themed art night later this month, with future events focused on comics and manga also being planned.
