Mission to Make Room for Every Voice
Trevor Twells, a Black artist and entrepreneur, is committed to breaking barriers in the art world. Recognizing the struggles of underrepresented artists from marginalized communities, Twells founded MakeRoom Inc., an innovative platform dedicated to providing creative opportunities for artists who do not have any connections in the art world. Through MakeRoom, Twells has built a space where artists can thrive, tell their stories, and share their vision with the world.
At the heart of MakeRoom is its mission to create equity in the art world by ensuring artists have access to tools, exposure, and platforms they need to succeed. For Twells, this goal stems from something personal. As a young artist, he often experienced nepotism in the art industry. The need for artists to sell their trauma in order to earn a spot triggered anger within him. MakeRoom is his way of changing that narrative and offering support that he never got.
MakeRoom's latest initiative, the Space Project, is a shining example of Twells' vision in action. The Space Project transforms unused urban spaces into vibrant showcases for local artists. One standout aspect of this initiative is the repurposing of storefront windows, like those at a neighborhood barbershop, into dynamic art galleries. By night, these spaces come alive as glowing displays of creativity, blending art into the rhythm of everyday community life.
The Space Project isn’t just about showcasing art, it’s about accessibility. Twells believes art should be available to everyone, not hidden behind the walls of exclusive galleries. By integrating art into public spaces, he’s breaking down barriers and inviting communities to engage with art in a new and intimate way. For the artists involved, it’s a chance to reach audiences and showcase their skill.
For Trevor Twells, MakeRoom is about more than just art. It is about empowerment, representation, and the belief that every artist’s story deserves to be told.
Able to Enable
Trevor Twells has always had a creative and determined mindset. From a young age, he was captivated by technology and art and often indulged in creating web apps and coding. Despite his talent and determination, Twells found himself out of bounds by the gatekeeping that he says defines much of the traditional art world. Opportunities were limited, and access was reserved for those who fit within its narrow margins. Refusing to let these barriers define him, Twells carved a space for himself.
Twells couldn’t help but notice other artists who he came up with, experiencing the same struggles that he had. The injustices sparked a drive in him to create something different. He founded MakeRoom, a platform designed to amplify the voices of marginalized artists. MakeRoom connects artists with an audience hungry for authentic and diverse stories. More than a platform, it’s a movement that challenges exclusion and offers a space for creativity to thrive.
One of MakeRoom’s signature moments came at Toronto’s Union Station, where Twells orchestrated a union of art and inclusivity. The station, a bustling hub at the heart of the city, became a canvas for underrepresented artists to share their work with the world. Through projects like this, and various other exhibits like the Space Project and Yonge-Dundas Square Project, Twells has become a powerful voice for change, ensuring art flows from every corner of society to the center of attention.
With every new initiative, MakeRoom continues to uplift and inspire. Trevor Twells’ vision is clear: to empower artists, foster inclusivity, and make space for creativity to shine. As MakeRoom grows, it’s ready to step onto the global stage, proving that art belongs to everyone.
From the Shadows to the Spotlight
Hidden artists are emerging from the margins, finding a space to thrive through MakeRoom. Maryam Amri, Vice President of MakeRoom, emphasizes that art should reflect the diversity of society, not just a select few.
Through open calls, MakeRoom provides a platform where anyone, regardless of experience, connections, or background, can showcase their work. This approach stands in stark contrast to the exclusivity that often dominates the traditional art world, where opportunities are typically reserved for a known few.
Annwin, a painter who goes by one name, began her artistic journey during the pandemic. For her, MakeRoom was a vital steppingstone. Without a formal background in art, Annwin struggled to navigate the industry, finding it hard to access resources or establish connections. MakeRoom bridged that gap, offering her not just a place to share her work but a sense of community and support.
Maryam Amri describes MakeRoom as a launchpad for artists who can gain experience and become successful. “I really value seeing the impact of a real physical piece of art taking up space,” she says, and “I just want to see us deliver more and more projects every year.”
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