Exploring Community and Creativity at It's Ok* Studios with Said Yassin

Transforming Spaces for Artistic Growth

At the heart of Toronto's Queen West neighborhood lies It's Ok* Studios, an independently operated arts space founded by Said Yassin. This dynamic venue blossomed from a vacant retail space into a vibrant community hub aimed at fostering creativity among Toronto's Black artistic community.

Yassin's vision is clear: It's a space for everything — from music performances to art exhibitions, completely designed to be flexible and inclusive. Unlike traditional venues, It's Ok* Studios emphasizes accessibility and adaptability, seeing its purpose as an ongoing exploration of what public space can mean for the community.

A Festival with Purpose

This weekend, on Saturday, August 8, the annual free festival It’s Ok* World will take place at Trillium Park, featuring a lineup that includes artists like Gena (Liv.e + Karriem Riggins), keiyaA, and Clairmont The Second. With its commitment to free art, the festival aligns with Yassin's ethos of creating genuine experiences without economic barriers. "This is our way of giving back," he states, drawing on personal memories of attending free concerts as a young student in Toronto.

Adapting in a Temporary Space

Interestingly, the space that houses It's Ok* Studios is on borrowed time; the city has plans to convert it into a park. Yassin anticipated such a scenario, having understood the temporary nature of his lease from the outset. Despite this uncertainty, he remains optimistic about securing a permanent location: "We're in talks with the city about finding something more lasting," he reveals. With several lease extensions already secured, Yassin continues to focus on producing meaningful events and experiences for the community regardless of the impending shifts.

Beyond Conventional Venues

Yassin's philosophy transcends the typical confines of event spaces. He views It's Ok* Studios not merely as a venue but as a canvas for various forms of artistic expression. "We don’t have a fixed rate for using our space," Yassin explains. This model allows for a flexible approach, responding to the financial realities of those looking to use the space. Whether someone has grant money or is trying to wait on Eventbrite funds, It's Ok* Studios ensures that no one is turned away based on financial capacity.

In contrast to larger organizations, Yassin emphasizes grassroots engagement over corporate sponsorships. "Events driven by community members tend to possess an authenticity that corporate-backed events often lack," he suggests. He points out that experiences curated by individuals deeply rooted in the community foster genuine connections between artists and their audiences, creating memorable moments beyond just the performance itself.

Audience Engagement and Responsibility

As someone who has experienced the industry from various perspectives, Yassin recognizes the responsibility he holds in presenting artists. "The biggest promise I make to the artists is that I care, potentially even more than they do," he affirms. This commitment to meaningful engagement with each act and each audience member ensures that the events at It's Ok* are not simply transactions but opportunities for connection and growth.

For Yassin, the essence of live performance lies in creating real-time experiences that deepen emotional connections to music. He recalls countless moments when seeing an artist live culminated in tangible support, like purchasing merchandise or bringing friends to future shows. "Live music offers one of the last genuine modes of connection in today's digital age," he contends.

Finding Food and Community After Events

Every show culminates in shared experiences beyond the music. Yassin cherishes the post-show ritual and fondly recommends local spots for food. "After a long night, we often head to Angara for some hearty haka. Alpha’s Shawarma is another staple, and for late-night cravings, there’s Taqueria el Pastorcito, which stays open until 4 a.m. on weekends," he shares. These moments not only fill stomachs but also foster relationships among those who share a love for music and community.

Marketing with Trust and Integrity

When it comes to promoting events, Yassin uses a mix of traditional tools: social media, mailing lists, and poster campaigns. However, he emphasizes that building trust is just as critical as marketing. "You have to book music you believe in and treat people well in every interaction," he advises. This approach has helped cultivate a loyal audience willing to take chances on unfamiliar acts, trusting Yassin's curation based on past positive experiences.

A Glimpse into the Festival

This year’s It’s Ok* World is not just about the music; it includes a local vendor market and food options that reflect the community’s diversity. As the date approaches, Yassin is optimistic about the event: "We're aiming for a fantastic weather day that sets the tone for joy and connection," he states. The spirit of the festival is about fostering community bonds and providing an inviting atmosphere for all attendees.

Final Thoughts on Life and Community

When asked about life's simplest pleasures, Yassin humorously declares, "What a tough question. I want to say bread." Yet his reflections hint at deeper connections, like the playful exchanges with his family over meals. These moments encapsulate his perspective on life — one that values relationships, community engagement, and the joys that emerge from shared experiences.

Learn more about It's Ok* Studios and the It’s Ok* World festival here, and get updates on their vibrant community through Instagram.

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