Meet the ACT Artists
Deborah Pimentel
Deborah Pimentel is a part of the Family Fun Programs team and ACT.
“Currently, I am a high school science teacher but if I reflect back on my childhood, I was always creating art in my spare time. Next to Science, Art was my favourite subject in school.
As I got older, my focus shifted towards the Sciences, however, during COVID I had time to re-discover my artistic side. I started a sketchbook and continue to fill it with drawings and I picked up the guitar and started to teach myself how to play.
I was pretty excited to be given the opportunity to share my art experience with children through the ACT initiative. What appealed to me about this program was the chance to work with children in a way that gave them the opportunity to explore their love for art without any restrictions or barriers."
Ashley Tanchez
Ashley Tanchez is ACT's Student Artist.
"I've been with MCRC and ACT since 2023, and alongside facilitating the Art Summer Camps, I also facilitate She Can Create and Family Fun Programs. Currently, I am pursuing a double major in English and Studio Art from the University of Guelph. I have been making art for as long as I can remember, and I love sharing my passion with others!"
Dasha Shalimo
Dasha Shalimo is an Art Therapy student passionate about making creative and therapeutic experiences accessible to people of all ages.
"Drawing on my background in psychoeducational and human services, I support children, youth, and adults as they navigate life's challenges, including stress, emotional well-being, trauma recovery, and relationship difficulties. My approach is warm, inclusive, client-centred, and strengths-based, creating a welcoming space where participants feel safe to express themselves, connect with others, and explore their experiences through art.
Art has always been an important part of my life. Through my own experience with therapeutic art, I discovered its ability to foster self-awareness, resilience, self-compassion, and personal growth. This inspired me to pursue art therapy and share its healing potential within the community.
I believe that everyone has creativity within them and that no artistic experience is needed to benefit from art-making. My community outreach workshops encourage curiosity, reflection, and connection while supporting emotional well-being in a safe and respectful environment. Through creative exploration, participants are invited to discover new strengths, build resilience, and experience the healing power of art together."