TWAS – Toronto World Arts Scene was started in 1997 by Lise Watson as a print magazine covering the arts from the diverse arts communities of this city, this country and beyond. This website marks the relaunch of this unique publication and promises to be the ‘go to’ site for all who have a curiosity about more than mainstream culture. African, Indian, Aboriginal, Latin, Caribbean, and Asian arts of all kinds are at the heart and centre of TWAS, but we go way beyond all the usual stereotypes, and give much needed exposure to under-represented artists of all kinds.
Lise Watson has been an active member of the world music media in Toronto for many years. Her thesis for her Master of Arts from the University of Toronto is in the world music education area of study. A frequent visitor in the West African countries of The Gambia and Senegal, Lise is currently researching music, media and culture.
In 2011, Lise co-founded Kotu-Erinjang School Support along with Headmaster Boubacarr Ceesay, and Production Coordinator Lamin Saidykhan to provide financial assistance to the Burbage Nursery School Kotu-Erinjang in The Gambia, West Africa. She has organized several successful fundraising campaigns, raising enough funds to buy books, a new roof, have desks constructed and purchase renovation building supplies, and sponsor four children to attend school for a year. Please see www.kotuschool.com
logo artwork © kobena aquaa-harrison
