At Antyx Community Arts, we believe that art has the power to bridge gaps and build communities. Recently, we were reminded of this truth through a deeply personal gift from Dawn Medeiros and her family, given in memory of her son, Connor.
The Spirit of Inclusion
Connor was a young man who moved through the world with immense charisma. From an early age, he was defined by his love for skateboarding and his ability to make anyone feel like part of the group. He was known for his kindness; if he saw a person standing alone, he made a conscious effort to bring them into the fold.
Connor’s days were spent exploring Calgary, listening to rap and classic rock, and developing a growing talent for street art. His unique “Chiba & Monchichi” tag can be found throughout the city. A lasting mark of a life lived with curiosity and energy.
Turning Grief into Community Impact
In 2024, Connor’s journey ended far too soon. In the face of unimaginable loss, his mother, Dawn, chose to channel Connor’s spirit of care into a project that would help others. She took Connor’s “Chiba” tag and created high-quality memorial hoodies to share his art with the world.
The project became a way for those who knew him (and those who didn’t) to carry a piece of his legacy.
Through the sale of these hoodies, Dawn raised $2,555 to support the next generation of artists.
The Connection to Antyx
Dawn chose to donate these proceeds to Antyx Community Arts after being connected by a special person who knew the organizations work (Cathy). Dawn believes that Connor would have loved the work we do; using art as a tool for connection, independence, and self-expression.
This donation is a beautiful tribute to a young man who wanted to be independent, who loved working with his hands, and who discovered beauty in the streets of this city, in its street art, and in the people he met along the way. These funds will ensure that other Calgary youth have the support and resources they need to explore their own creative talents in a safe, inclusive environment.
A Lasting Legacy
Connor’s life was cut short, but his kindness and care for others continue through his family and every person who wears his tag. We are honored to be a part of his story.
If you come across his tag on a walk through our beautiful city, please follow and share your photo tagging Connor’s memorial page:
“His impact on the community and the world, his kindness and care for others, will continue on through me and everyone who knew him.” — Dawn Medeiros
