Upcoming events
This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to stand with us and help create a ripple of hope, opportunity and empowerment for the young people who need it most.
At The Canvas Institute, we aren’t just talking about change-we’re actively shaping it. Through programs like our Annual Youth Empowerment Summit, Compassionate Systems Curriculum Sessions, and our expanding creative and wellness initiatives, we’re giving young people the tools, confidence, and support they need to navigate life’s challenges and rise into their fullest potential.
Join Us for this one-of-a-kind cultural celebration as we close out the year with intention. We invite you to experience two powerful cultural offerings under one roof, each rooted in creativity, heritage, fashion and community.
On our main floor, explore the Griot Exhibit, featuring the extraordinary work of Nigerian artist Doba Afolabi, a visual journey of storytelling, identity, and artistic legacy, made possible by the Staten Island Arts.
Then make your ay upstairs to Mother Digi’s Pop-Up Closet, where custom-designed garments and accesories reflect craftmanship, tradition, and the beauty of wearable art. Together, these two experiences create a vibrant fusion of art and culture-each unique on its own, yet even more powerful when experienced side by side.
Viewings available through December 31st.
Monday through Friday
2:00-5:00pm
Please give us a call at 718-273-6160 or send us an email at info@canvasinstitute.org, to ensure we have a staff member available to greet and guide you through the exhibition.
Diamond Grant Fundraiser
Canvas is honored to be a recipient of the Diamond Matching Grant Program, an initiative of the Staten Island Foundation.
This grant is more than just funding; it’s an opportunity to strengthen our programs in Compassionate Systems and Social-Emotional Learning for student across Staten Island Schools and beyond. This means every gift will go twice as far in supporting our programs in Staten Island Schools.
Our fundraising strategy is designed not only to meet our goal but significantly exceed it. At Canvas Institute, every dollar you give helps us create lasting impact-and right now, your support can go twice as far thanks to the Diamond Matching Grant Program.
Your donation helps us continue programs that make a real difference in our community:
✨ Fostering mindfulness in schools
✨ Supporting youth mental health
✨ Expanding access to cultural arts
✨ Advancing critical thinking through chess
… and so much more
Together, we can keep building a stronger, more creative, and compassionate Staten Island — one program, one student, and one act of generosity at a time.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration, inspiration, and impact at the Annual Youth Empowerment Gala, hosted by Canvas Institute.
📅 Wednesday, November 12, 2025
🕖 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
📍 Le Greci’s Staaten — 697 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY
👗 Attire: Festive / Cocktail
This glamorous evening is dedicated to championing youth programs and honoring exceptional community leaders. As the first Black-owned multidisciplinary cultural space in Downtown Staten Island, Canvas Institute is committed to bridging the gaps faced by underserved communities through artistic, educational, and cultural initiatives.
Ways to support us :
🎟️ Tickets & Tables
💎 Sponsorship Packages
📖Youth Empowerment Gala Journal
With every ticket, sponsorship, or Journal placement, you’re fueling youth empowerment programs and multiplying your impact through the Diamond Grant 2:1 match.
👉 https://www.pledge.to/aye25#donate
PAST EVENTS
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Every Saturday through October 25th (2pm-6pm)
Join our FREE block party every Saturday for a family outing, food, games and FUN! We also provide you with life-saving resources from our partners at SIPPS.
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September 25th, October 23rd and November 20th (6pm-830pm)
Empower your future with tools from the experts for real-life financial success.
Do not miss this series!
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October 31st (3pm-7pm)
Enjoy a Spooky Halloween at Canvas Institute!
We are opening our doors to provide a safe place for kids to Trick-o-Treat. Expect candy stations, family friendly Halloween movies, pumpkin decorating and theme music.
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OPENING RECEPTION: OCTOBER 24TH 6PM-830PM
AT OUR STATEN ISLAND HEADQUARTERS
(183 VICTORY BLVD SI NYC 10301)
THIS EXHIBITION WILL RUN THROUGH JANUARY 2026
ALL ARE WELCOME
THIS WILL BE AN EXTRAORDINARY EVENING OF ART, CULTURE, INTERNATIONAL FINGER FOOD, DRINKS AND CONNECTION.
FOR MORE INFORMATION / TO RSVP FOR PRIVATE VIEWING
EMAIL: INFO@CANVASINSTITUTE.ORG
PHONE: (718) 273-6160
January 23RD, 2024
55 Richmond Terrace ( Empire Outlet)
Staten Island, 10301, NY
NETWORK CONVENTION
Dear CitizensNYC Grantees, Mark your calendars for the upcoming Staten Island Network Convening on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 – the second event in our exclusive 4-part series crafted just for you!During our initial Convening, we unveiled the transformative Collaborative Impact Grants – a $10,000 award tailored to bolster projects that unite the strengths of multiple grantees, taking on community challenges with a holistic approach. This next Convening is your chance to collaborate closely with fellow grantees from your neighborhood. Dive into discussions on collaboration opportunities and kickstart the creation of a grant application for the Collaborative Impact Grant. Missed the first Convening? No worries! You're still invited to the second one! We believe in the potential of our community when we unite, share knowledge, and collaboratively strive for common goals. Join us on this journey of collective growth and amplified community impact. **Sign up for the second network convening:** https://citizensnyc.salsalabs.org/statenislandsnetworkconvening2/index.html
February 16th -- 19th, 2024
Venue
New York, NY
MBK ( My Brother’s Keeper)FELLOWS STAND AND DELIVER
Canvas Institute is going to be represented at a dynamic stand and deliver session hosted by MBK (My Brother's Keeper) fellows, individuals who are currently interning with us. These fellows will provide valuable insights into the impactful work of the MBK Alliance, a dedicated organization empowering communities to collaboratively address challenges faced by boys and young men of color. The MBK Alliance was started nationally during the presidency of Barack Obama after the tragic death of Trayvon Martin in order to offer young men of color a chance to succeed in life. The MBK Alliance focuses on achieving tangible improvements in life outcomes, promoting cross-sector collaboration with local leaders, nonprofits, corporations, and philanthropy. The commitment to actively involve residents, including youth, in shaping priorities and initiatives ensures a comprehensive and community-driven approach. Join us for an enlightening session that explores the power of collective action in fostering positive change for boys and young men of color.
MARCH 2,2024
1Campus Rd, ( Spiro Hall)
Staten Island, NY 10301
THE 18TH YOUTH EMPOWERMENT SUMMIT
Welcome to the 18th Annual Canvas Institute/Island Voice Youth Empowerment Summit! For nearly two decades, our program has been dedicated to empowering young students and continues to thrive. Drawing participants from across New York City and beyond, spanning from elementary to high school, our summit offers a dynamic platform with youth-led panels, workshops, guest facilitators and Master Practitioners. Over the years, we've been honored to host keynote speakers, including local heroes like Michael Rainey Jr., Brianna Fugate, and Caesar Vargas, as well as renowned hip-hop artists such as Tristan Wilds and Cappadonna from Wu-Tang Clan. Our summit is geared towards equipping the youth with information on entrepreneurship, government, higher education, and career readiness, employing a collective impact approach for collaborative success. Having supported over 10,000 youths since its inception, the Youth Summit serves as a beacon, bringing young minds together to amplify their voices and instill the power to effect change in their community and beyond. Through the Canvas Institute and Island Voice Youth Empowerment Summit, students gain tools for self-mastery, self-regulation, and Compassionate Systems practices, including social-emotional learning, well-being education/guidance, and violence reduction training. Our holistic approach extends beyond academic topics, prioritizing physical recreational activities, cultural/arts programming, anti-violence advocacy, and career and college readiness. The impact of our program is evident in the countless students who have benefited from its support, resources, and mentorship connections.oin us in this incredible journey of cultural and social-emotional learning experiences, empowering youth to be catalysts for change in their communities and the world. The Canvas Institute/Island Voice Youth Empowerment Summit is not just an event; it's a transformative experience shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
March 9TH, 2024
Wagner College , 1 Campus Rd,
Staten Island, NY 10301
CHESS TOURNAMENT
Explore the strategic world of chess at the annual Canvas Institute Chess Tournament. This free event serves as a bridge between the community and NYPD, fostering connections through initiatives like Cops vs Kids chess matches. Recognizing chess as a fundamental tool for youth development, the tournament emphasizes the game's ability to hone strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and patience—attributes applicable to various aspects of life. Join us in this intellectually enriching experience as Canvas Institute underscores the importance of chess in building a resilient community.
At the Canvas Institute, we understand the importance of community and the many benefits it can bring to individuals and society as a whole. Research has consistently shown that belonging to a community can provide valuable support, influence, sharing, reinforcement, connection, education, and passion.
As a community-focused organization, we are committed to bringing a real sense of community back to Staten Island and the greater New York area. We believe that by fostering a sense of belonging and connection among community members, we can create a more vibrant and thriving community that supports the well-being and success of all its members.
Our Events Page is an excellent resource for community members who are looking to stay informed about upcoming events and activities in the area. We update this page regularly with new events and activities, ranging from cultural exhibits and performances to educational workshops and community programs. By staying informed and engaged with the community, we can work together to build a better future for all.
Canvas Institute Special Event
THE 18TH ANNUAL ISLAND VOICE YOUTH EMPOWERMENT SUMMIT
The Canvas Institute/ Island Voice Youth Empowerment Summit has been empowering young students for 18 years, and it is showing no signs of stopping. The program welcomes students from all across New York City and the world, from elementary to high school, for a series of youth-led panels, workshops, guest facilitators, and “Compassionate Systems” Master Practitioners.
The summit has had keynote speakers in the past, including hometown Staten Island heroes such as Michael Rainey Jr., Brianna Fugate, and Caesar Vargas, as well as hip-hop celebrities like Tristan Wilds and Wu-Tang Clan's Cappadonna. The summit's goal is to empower students with information on entrepreneurship, government, higher education, and career readiness, utilizing a collective impact approach to collaborate.
The Youth Summit program has provided support, resources, and mentorship connections to over 10,000 youths since the program launched. The program brings our youth together to amplify their voice and awaken the power that they have to change their community and the world.
Through the Canvas Institute and Island Voice Youth Empowerment Summit, students are given the tools to achieve self-mastery and self-regulation. The program focuses on delivering Compassionate Systems tools and practices to young students, including social-emotional learning and well-being education/guidance, as well as self-regulation skills and violence reduction training.
In addition to these important topics, the summit also prioritizes holistic well-being through physical recreational activities, cultural/arts programming, anti-violence advocacy, and career and college readiness.
Overall, the Canvas Institute/Island Voice Youth Empowerment Summit is an incredible program that provides students of all ages and walks of life with enriching cultural and social-emotional learning experiences. The program seeks to empower our youth to change their community and the world, and the impact of the program is clear in the number of students who have benefited from its support, resources, and mentorship connections.
Coming March 2nd, 2024
chess Wednesdays - Make a move!
Join us for chess every Wednesday at 5:00 PM at Canvas Institute (183 Victory Blvd).
Our friendly instructor guides beginners through the basics and helps experienced players level up their strategy. Come solo or with friends and learn new openings, practice tactics, and enjoy a relaxed community vibe. All ages and skill levels welcome.
Why Chess Is Important;
It Improve focus, memory and patience.
Teaches strategy, pattern recognition and logic.
Builds critical/creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Practice planning, weighing options, and adapting to change.
Helps improve general cognitive ability and scholastic achievement, especially in mathematics and reading.
Enhance confidence - win or lose, kids learn self control, respect, fairness, and resilience.
Bottom line: Chess is a screen-light, brain-bright habit that grows with you, from first moves to lifelong mastery. Chess boost self-belief and supports the development of higher-order thinking skills.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
On Going Exhibit: "Someone Like Me"
"Someone Like Me” is an exhibit presented by Canvas Institute featuring Beverly Moore Head and her doll collection. Her goal is to empower young girls of various ethnic backgrounds.
This Inclusivity Doll event displays dolls designed to resemble girls from various parts of the globe. Having different walks of life represented are crucial steps in making sure a young girl is welcomed and appreciated.
Join us at the Canvas Institute for “Someone Like Me” Inclusivity Notions of Beauty. The event will be co-curated by Sade Dinkins and Teresa Caliari. The dolls displayed are courtesy of Dr. Brenda Greene.
POETRY IN THE TOMPKINSVILLE PARK 2.0
In our modern society, art is a universal way for people to express themselves and share their feelings with the world. Art is an important avenue through which to connect with others, especially in times of crisis. Ultimately, Art is a platform for people to express themselves and live out their dreams. It helps them deal with tough times and create something beautiful out of them.
Join us all year long at the Tompkinsville Park for "Poetry In The Tompkinsville Park 2.0". The event will be hosted by Canvas Institute with live performances like Frank Troy, Cl3ctic, Agent Blurr & other local favorites, it will always be a fun filled day you don't want to miss!
34TH Staten Island Jazz Festival
Experience the most wonderful time of the year at the 34th Staten Island Jazz Festival.
On Friday, December 16, 2022, the holiday celebration begins with this
special holiday event! The 34th Staten Island Jazz Festival will be at the St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt Street, Staten Island, NY, starting at 6 p.m. with festival favorites; like pianist, Danny Mixon, vocalist Antoinette Montague, and Jazz Woman to the Rescue performing at a special pre-show VIP reception!
The festival commemorates the legacy of its founder, Sajda Musawwir Ladner, artistic and executive director of the Universal Temple of the Arts. It was her vision to bring high quality, live performances to Staten Island stages. This festival has brought critical acclaim to the event, making it the longest-running community festival in New York City. Tickets to the VIP Reception (limited seating) and the holiday festival can be purchased at the St. George Box Office.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
Proceeds from the gala will go towards our 18th Annual Youth Empowerment Summit that provides young people with a space and forum for expressing their thoughts, ideas, and challenges as we create solutions together.
Since the inception of our Annual Youth Empowerment Summit, Canvas Institute has helped over 10,000 youths and will continue to inspire the next generation of creative, community, civic, and political leaders to meet, create, and act.
Thank you supporting our Inaugural Youth Empowerment Gala
Chess Tournament
Explore the strategic world of chess at the annual Canvas Institute Chess Tournament. This free event serves as a bridge between the community and NYPD, fostering connections through initiatives like Cops vs Kids chess matches. Recognizing chess as a fundamental tool for youth development, the tournament emphasizes the game's ability to hone strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and patience—attributes applicable to various aspects of life. Join us in this intellectually enriching experience as Canvas Institute underscores the importance of chess in building a resilient community.
Under the NFT
In December, Canvas in collaboration with Vince MacDermot held the first Staten Island NFT Gallery opening.
As a continuation of this program, we invite you to join us for a discussion led by Staten Island artists on the benefits and challenges of NFTs.
This event will be hosted by Bobby Digi
Panelists include:
Keys La’Ché
Chris Penn
Shonda Westbrook
Please join us through ZOOM:
https://bit.ly/canvasmeeting
This event is brought to you by the Canvas Institute: canvasinstitute.org
This event will be streamed through FB Live @Canvas150 or IG @CanvasInstitute
Panel Discussion: Covid and Gun Violence in our Communities: A National Health Crisis
We are excited about this discussion including all ages of the community to share their thoughts on Covid and Gun Violence in our communities.
We are dealing with 2 national health crises:
1. Covid
2. Gun Violence
Please join us as Ellen Dotts and TBA hosts a community panel exploring both of these health issues and what we can do to overcome them
Please join us through ZOOM:
This event is brought to you by
The Canvas Institute: canvasinstitute.org
The Staten Island Performing Provider System:https://statenislandpps.org/
This will be a virtual event you can view it on FB Live @Canvas150 or IG @CanvasInstitute
Art Exhibit EVent.
This Saturday December 18th 2021 Canvas Institute is calling on all families and friends to come out and experience the art exhibit here at Our Headquarters{Canvas Institute} 150 victory Blvd Staten Island 10301. Come and have a great time.
OPen Mic EVent
We will be having our open mic event where those who are inspired by our organization and equally those who love poetry gets a chance to show us their talents as a poet. Invite friends and family because it will be spectacular. Event starts At 8pm At our headquarters(150 victory Blvd Staten island NY 10301}
COps/Kids Chess EVEnT
The Chess event holds on November 13 2021 and it is to bring us all together as a family playing all sorts of games and of course Chess. Prizes will be given out and it will be an amazing experience .
Canvas Institute workshop event
Tommorrow Novemver 12 2021 is the canvas institute poetry workshop event starting at 3pm-5pm,Make sure you all make it and invite friends and family to grace this occasion it will be an amazing experience.
