In 1992 Kristen Fahrig was among a group of four artists who responded to the lack of relevant, accessible cultural institutions in the City of York, founding a storefront art centre, ArtStarts Neighbourhood Cultural Centre. Through this experience, Kristen became convinced of the power of the community art process to promote healthy relationships. She has since focused her attention as cultural animator on her neighbourhood in the west end of Toronto, bringing together many different groups in shared creative expression.