Hi! My name is Katia!
I am a Toronto-based creative, educator, and the Director of The Bitove Method - an innovative, not-for-profit organization offering arts-based programming and community for older adults living with dementia, and their care partners.
From a young age I have pursued a creative route with gusto, finding a passion for the entire world of art and design. Over the years, I have become increasingly interested in the ways art can contribute to building communities of care and help us do good in the world.
Education
I have completed a BDes in Illustration from OCADU, and a thesis-based MA in Recreation and Leisure from the University of Waterloo with a focus on culture change in long-term care.
I also studied graphic design in Paris, France, at ESAG Penninghen.
Art Practice
My current practice is centred on collage and exploring the playful, satisfying, and surprising juxtapositions that collage makes possible!
Click here to see the series: All My Strangers,
a collection of quirky collage characters with accompanying stories and reflection prompts.
I also have experience and expertise in illustration, painting, murals, design, and animation.
Facilitation
Over the last decade I have developed a passion for working creatively with people living with dementia.
This love for facilitation and teaching has extended beyond this work, and I regularly host arts-based workshops for private groups, high schools, and the general public.
I offer professional development workshops around relational caring and related concepts.
Academic Work
Through my work with persons with dementia, I was inspired to pursue a Master's degree that would allow me to take part in research that aims to better the lives of older adults, and advocate for better care cultures for persons living with dementia and those in long-term care.
I am an active advocate for culture change in long-term care and focus much of my research and work on relational approaches to caring.