FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: Wednesday, April, 8, 2026.
New Path, the MacLaren Art Centre, and the Barrie Public Library Partner on commUNITY Art Project and Exhibition for Children’s Mental Health Week
Barrie, ON – New Path Youth and Family Services (New Path) and the MacLaren Art Centre (MacLaren) are once again partnering for the commUNITY art project, a series of free, hands-on workshops designed to bring families and youth together through creative expression. This year, two family workshops will also be offered through the Barrie Public Library (BPL).
The artwork completed during these workshops will be showcased in an exhibition, with a free opening reception on May 2 from 1 – 3 pm, in celebration of Children’s Mental Health Week (May 4-10). This exhibition highlights the meaningful role art can play in fostering connection and wellbeing, and complements Portfolio, the MacLaren’s annual juried exhibition featuring artwork by regional, graduating Grade 12 students.
“New Path is committed to working closely with our community partners to promote mental wellness and ensure that families and youth know that free and accredited mental health supports are available to them,” says Jim Harris, CEO of New Path. “The commUNITY art project is a meaningful way for families and young people to connect, express themselves and support mental wellness. We welcome all who can attend to be part of this inspiring, creative and uplifting initiative.”
Registration is now open for families and youth. Spots are limited, register today!
commUNITY Family/Youth Workshop Ages 6+
April 11, 2026 10 am – 12 pm
Barrie Public Library, Painswick Branch
Register: commUNITY Family Art Workshop – Barrie Public Library
commUNITY Youth Workshop Ages 13-18
April 14, 2026 4 pm – 6 pm
MacLaren Art Centre
Register: commUNITY: Youth Workshop – MacLaren Art Centre
commUNITY Family/Youth Workshop Ages 6+
April 18, 2026 10 am – 12 pm
Barrie Public Library, Downtown Branch
Register: commUNITY Family Art Workshop – Barrie Public Library
commUNITY Family Workshop Ages 5+
April 19, 2026 1 pm – 3 pm
MacLaren Art Centre
Register: commUNITY: Special Family Sunday Workshops – MacLaren Art Centre
commUNITY Family Workshop Ages 5+
April 26, 2026 1 pm – 3 pm
MacLaren Art Centre
Register: commUNITY: Special Family Sunday Workshops – MacLaren Art Centre
“The MacLaren is excited to collaborate with New Path to host this series of free workshops for all ages, where participants can create unique artwork that expresses personal narratives of growth, hope and transformation,” says Christina Mancuso, Education Officer at MacLaren Art Centre.
The commUNITY opening reception will take place on May 2nd, from 1:00 -3:00 pm to coincide with Portfolio, with artwork being displayed at the MacLaren’s PIE Education Centre from May 2 – June 1, 2026 and then at the Barrie Rotunda beginning in July.
“This is a great opportunity for families to come to the library, learn some new techniques, and explore their creative side for a good cause,” says Luke McKee, Manager of Community Engagement at Barrie Public Library. “Artistic expression has been proven to support positive mental well-being for youth, and we’re happy to partner with New Path and the MacLaren to host this program.”
A heartfelt thank you to Heljar and Karen Hansen from Pratt Homes for their generous support, making this initiative possible.
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About New Path Youth & Family Services of Simcoe County
New Path Youth & Family Services of Simcoe County (New Path) is an accredited children’s mental health agency providing a range of compassionate, innovative, and accessible services for children, youth, and their families throughout Simcoe County. We are a registered not-for-profit charitable organization with office locations across Simcoe County, including Alliston, Barrie, Bradford, Cookstown, Collingwood, and Orillia.
New Path is also the Lead Agency for children’s mental health in Simcoe County with the goal of enhancing the experience and outcomes of children, youth, and their families, seeking assistance with mental health and wellness.
Free mental health services for children, youth and their families are available in-person, by-phone or online. Appointments can be booked on the New Path website: www.newpath.ca/book-now or by calling 705-725-7656.
To learn more about New Path, to donate, or get involved please visit www.newpath.ca, follow us on social media Facebook: New Path Youth & Family Services X: @NewPathYFS Instagram: @NewPathYFS or sign up for our Newsletter
About the MacLaren Art Centre
The MacLaren Art Centre is the regional public art gallery serving the residents of Barrie, the County of Simcoe, and the surrounding area. The Gallery presents a year-round program of innovative exhibitions, education activities and special events.
We acknowledge the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg people, which include the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Pottawatomi Nations collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. The local bands consist of the Chippewa Tri-Council, who are made up of Beausoleil First Nation, Georgina Island First Nation, and Rama First Nation. We also acknowledge the Wendat Nation (Huron) who occupied these lands prior to the middle of the 17th century. We are dedicated to honour Indigenous history and culture and recognize the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples on this land. We are committed to moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation and respect with all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit People.
MacLaren Art Centre Location
37 Mulcaster Street
Barrie, Ontario L4M 3M2
705-721-9696
www.maclarenart.com
Public Hours:
Monday closed
Tuesday to Wednesday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Hours are subject to change – please visit maclarenart.com for the most up-to-date information.
Admission
Admission is FREE. Donations are welcome. Wheelchair accessible.
Media Contacts
Dominika Zapolnik Christina Mancuso
Manager of Communications Education Officer, School & Community Programs
New Path Youth and Family Services MacLaren Art Centre
(705) 627-3067 (705) 720-1044 ext. 234
