A UWindsor alumna is a partner is an organization dedicated to finding new life in materials others see as valueless.

Susan’s Art for All will celebrate a grand opening today from 4 to 7 p.m. at 998 Drouillard Road. It will sell arts-based project supplies repurposed from donated post-industrial and personal items for use in schools, at community events, and by individuals.

Laura Gould (BA English 1987) says the name honours Susan Dingler, who died in 2008. An artist and the wife of UWindsor arts professor emeritus Dan Dingler, she embodied the values to which this organization aspires, says Gould.

“It’s a welcoming and people-centred organization which values respectful interactions, the expression of gratitude, and embraces humour, flexibility, and a diversity of views and ideas,” she says. “We believe in kindness and a collegial, non-hierarchical approach to teamwork.”

Susan’s Art for All plans to recycle tons of materials each year from local businesses and will engage in related activities:

• recycle mART, a retail outlet selling materials and donated thrift items affordably priced for persons from all economic levels;
• smART kits, curriculum-based art kits designed by local teachers for use in the community and in classrooms throughout Windsor-Essex;
• programming at its Ford City facility to provide learning and creative experiences.

“We’re very excited to be opening in Ford City,” says project coordinator Marne Noestheden. “Like Ford City, Susan’s Art for All is unique in Windsor.”

The organization is working in collaboration with the East Windsor Community Service Centre (Drouillard Place) and has received funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Today’s opening is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 226-345-0439 or visit the Facebook page, www.facebook.com/susansartforall.