About the Program

Crimson & Craft: Seniors Art Connect is a community-driven Lakeshore Arts program for the residents of Griggs Manor, developed by and for senior community members.

Crimson & Craft aims to offer senior residents a space to further meaningful connections with their neighbours. Drawing on ideas gathered during a community consultation session in October 2025, participants will have an opportunity to explore personal creativity, and learn new artistic skills in craft and visual arts. The program is being led by Seniors’ Program Coordinator, Charlotte Sheasby-Coleman, and facilitated by artist facilitator Ewa Henry-Dawson.

See the completed works created by program participants at the Crimson & Craft exhibition, which will be on display at Lakeshore Arts in March 2026! Details will be posted at a later date.

We are grateful for the support of the Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation, in collaboration with the residents of Griggs Manor. This program is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.

Meet the Facilitator

Ewa Henry-Dawson (she/her) is a Polish-Canadian visual artist, poet, and L.M. Montgomery scholar. She is best known for her vibrant watercolours, though she has also worked with tapestry, clay, and canvas.

She has taught art to aspiring artists of all ages, making the creative process joyful and non-intimidating – especially for beginners.

A graduate of York University and Sheridan College, Ewa devotes much of her time to social activism and advocacy for underprivileged and marginalized members of society. Her artwork is largely sold at charitable fundraisers, as she strongly believes in the power and responsibility of a citizen-driven society.