Mentorship Essentials with Shawna Dempsey

This three-hour workshop will explore the dynamic of the mentor/mentee relationship. The afternoon will be active and fun, as attendees participate in a variety of activities designed to highlight their own experiences, strengths, skills and gifts, as well as some of the challenges in establishing a mutual mentorship vision. Topics discussed will include: defining structure, boundaries and expectations; avoiding pitfalls and negotiating conflict; and creating closure. The workshop will also explore learning models and will offer a variety of approaches and practical advice. It is an excellent how-to for anyone considering setting up a mentorship program, anyone who will be mentoring, or anyone who works in peer-based arts education. It is based on MAWA’s experience as a pioneer in the field of arts mentorship for the past 33 years.

Artist and MAWA Co-ED Shawna Dempsey has mentored for MAWA, Video Pool and Crossing Communities. She has also taught mentoring workshops for Visual Arts Ontario, Visual Arts Nova Scotia and CARFAC Saskatchewan, among others. MAWA Outreach and Program Coordinator Adriana Alarcón leads MAWA’s Foundation Mentorship Program.