Differentiation of instruction, a concept used in the world of education, can help arts programs nurture creativity, collaboration, and transferable skills. Jamie Bell, a founding member of Art Borups Cornersand the Winnipeg Arts Incubator, highlighted this innovative approach during a January 8, 2024 online presentation to artists and community leaders across Canada.
“We’ve always had one foot in education and the arts,” Bell explained during a January 8, 2024 online presentation. “The goal is to create pathways for artists and arts supporters that align with their individual interests and aspirations while ensuring they develop interdisciplinary skills that can be applied beyond their specific art form.”
Differentiation of instruction traditionally tailors teaching to meet the needs of individual students. Bell and his team have adapted this model for the arts, enabling diverse groups—ranging from emerging artists to retired board members—to collaborate more effectively, even in projects where large numbers of participants are engaged in the same activity. In recognizing individual strengths and goals within these group settings, the approach ensures that everyone contributes meaningfully while also developing their unique skills.
“For instance, we often see younger artists who are passionate about music, but they may need to strengthen their literacy skills to navigate contracts or grant applications,” Bell said. “At the same time, we work with older members, like retired board members, who might not be artists themselves but play an essential role in administrative support. Tailoring experiences and training, we’re not only meeting everyone where they are but also building a stronger, more unified arts community.”
Bell emphasized that differentiation ensures that every participant feels valued and engaged. “The retired board member who handles logistics and budgeting is just as critical to our success as the emerging artist experimenting with a new medium. The secret is finding what motivates each person and helping them see how their contribution fits into the larger picture.”
This approach has proven especially effective in interdisciplinary projects. Bell shared examples from Art Borups Corners, which often combines visual art, music, and storytelling. “We’ve seen a musician collaborate with a visual artist and a writer to create something extraordinary. The musician might teach others about rhythm while learning storytelling techniques themselves. It’s a cross-pollination of skills that enriches everyone involved.”
Attendees of the January 8 session noted how this model could address gaps in traditional arts training. “Arts programs often focus heavily on the craft itself, but they don’t always teach transferable skills like project management, literacy, or collaboration,” one attendee remarked. “This differentiation approach could be a game-changer.”
Bell’s presentation also highlighted the program’s adaptability to serve communities of all sizes. Rural areas and smaller arts organizations have found particular value in the model. “In smaller communities, people wear many hats. An artist might also be a teacher, an administrator, and a grant writer,” Bell noted. “Differentiation helps them balance these roles while staying creative and inspired.”
The Winnipeg Arts Incubator and Art Borups Corners are now looking to expand their approach through partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and other arts organizations. Bell’s message resonated deeply: “When we differentiate experiences and align them with each individual’s strengths, we create not just better artists, but better teams—and better communities.”
For more information on upcoming workshops and programs, visit artborupscorners.ca or follow them on social media.
