The Canvas
Founded in 2014, The Canvas is a self-professed “Happy Café” in East London.
The purpose of The Canvas was to unite people with space and support to solve local problems and make life better for everyone in the community. As they say, “We believe humans are amazing, they just need space to be so; The Canvas is that space.”
Beyond being a place to enjoy a cup of coffee, The Canvas offered self-esteem and confidence workshops and theatre space.
It also hosted an ever-changing handwritten debate on the café walls, encouraging self-expression as a means to build a sense of community. The walls were a “canvas” for the thoughts of customers, whether ideas, pleas, stories, or secrets.
“I launched The Canvas because I believe it brings people together, cheers people up, empowers them, and inspires them. It’s often incredibly hard to retain our faith in humanity…but my faith in humanity remains. Because I’m lucky enough to see, every day, the beauty, honesty and bravery of my community—it’s written everywhere for me, and you, to see at The Canvas.”
Sadly, The Canvas did not survive the post-pandemic financial crisis, but we hope that owner Ruth Rogers will find a way to re-open.
These smaller connection points are vital to a thriving community. Studies show that interaction with secondary connections, such as the barista at the coffee house or the cashier at the grocery store, adds to our sense of belonging and happiness.