After 5 years of creation, community building, and holding space for artists, most recently, through an ongoing pandemic, Akin has said goodbye to Akin Ossington. Our studios closed permanently on September 30, 2021.

Located at 888 Dupont St, Akin Ossington contained our first studio dedicated to providing workspace for light industrial art making. With over 70 studio workspaces in total, ranging from 20 square feet to 250 square feet, this space allowed for both shared and private studios for artists as well as thoughtful creative programming to complement its creative members.

This century-old historic building, used by many artists over the years was significant in many ways for the city, but also for Akin, from being one of Akin's most populated and active spaces, to holding Akin’s very first Community fridge, Akin Ossington created space for artists to gather, create, and connect with one another. Like many other spaces, Akin Ossington was heavily affected by the COVID 19 pandemic. With the support of TAS, the owner of the property, Akin was able to mitigate the rent costs and allow our artists some financial relief towards their studio spaces during a period during which artists and creatives were hit the hardest.

“It’s so disheartening to let go of a space that we’ve loved for so long. Having conversations about losing one of our studios in the middle of a pandemic showcases how much organizations like Akin need long-term spaces in the city.” - Oliver Pauk, Akin’s Founder and Director

Since opening its first modest space in West Queen West 13 years ago, Akin has endeavoured to make being an artist an affordable and viable vocation in our city. Now more than ever, we feel Akin’s role is an important one for Toronto's cultural community and artists, as we ensure that there is always space to create, to build, and to work.

A space filled with people standing in the background. In the foreground are two people holding guitars and playing. One is wearing a blue jacket and the other is wearing a lilac sweater. Around them are speakers and guitar cases.

Instead of mourning however, Akin chose to celebrate the memories created together. TAS, Manual Arts, and Akin partnered together to bring the Akin Community a goodbye party featuring drinks, friends, and live music. Moreno Zulu, MOMxW¥FE, and Bingo Day were some of the local artists that brought their talents to 888 Dupont one last time.

Akin Ossington members were supported during the studio closure by Akin staff and team. Many of the artists have relocated their studio to our existing other Akin locations, or have been added to waiting lists for Akin’s two upcoming new studio locations in the East End.

Akin wants to thank the Akin Ossington studio members from the last five years for their creativity, collaborative spirit, patience and for contributing to the vibrant artist community in the building, and in the city. We also want to thank Berat OĞUR for capturing and putting together our Akin Ossington tribute video.

Although it is sad to say goodbye to Akin Ossington, it is exciting to look forward to the future and Akin is excited to be opening new studio locations in 2022.

For more information, waiting list inquiries, or to share ideas, please get in touch with info@akincollective.com. Please note that all our studios are at capacity at this time, but we are happy to share info with you and to add you to one of our waiting lists.