Delve In: Art, Inquiry, and Relational Practice

Art, Inquiry, and Relational Practice

Delve In offers a research-informed, arts-centered approach to fostering meaningful connections and transformation. Rooted in years of interdisciplinary work and the dynamic principles of improvisation, we help shift how people think, work, and relate. Through artistic practices and relational inquiry, Delve In cultivates intentional spaces where creativity, collaboration, and curiosity thrive—supporting artists, consulting on interdisciplinary projects, and facilitating transformative workshops.

We focus on three interconnected areas:

Supporting artists

Services that help artists reflect on, articulate, and share their creative inquiries and the impact of their work.

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Consulting with interdisciplinary teams

Tailored guidance for interdisciplinary collaborations between artists, researchers, and communities, with a focus on ethical engagement and meaningful relationships.

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Facilitating workshops

Workshops and training sessions rooted in improvisation to explore relational dynamics, interdependence, and collective creativity.

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Inclusive Practice

Over the past twelve years, Delve In has facilitated workshops with a wide range of groups and has learned a great deal about what is needed to set projects up well and to facilitate them such that people learn well from them. This includes paying careful attention at the outset to the range of ways people move around; I ask about disabilities and attend to this in exercise design; I create opportunities for people to participate by reflecting rather than doing if they wish; and I am attentive to ways this work might scare people or be hard for them and I have found ways to address this. Continuously learning how to create inclusive practices is vital to the work of Delve In.

“…Cathy’s well honed facilitation style put participants at ease as they explored experientially issues such as participation, trust building, and relationship development … Students felt her presence to be energizing, and thought provoking!”Samantha Wehbi, Graduate Program Director MFA Documentary Media, Toronto Metropolitan University
“…She is excellent at creating innovative and effective social justice-based programming for all ages. Cathy’s positive attitude, enthusiasm and compassion make it a true pleasure to attend one of her workshops!”
Julie Read, Family Programs Coordinator, High Park Nature Centre
“Cathy has a remarkable gift for being thoughtful and patient and is a natural listener; one of the most valuable skills in a consultant. I would most definitely work with her organization again, and highly recommend her services.”
Alia Abaya, CEO , Circle Community LandTrust
“Cathy created a welcoming environment that allowed me and the participants to be more vulnerable and explore important topics and approaches that are conducive to enhancing wellness and confidence. Her facilitation skills are superior and impressive – her ability to work with diversity, and various personal and interpersonal challenges is exceptional. Cathy provided a wonderful and life-changing experience!”Gio Iacono, Assistant Professor Social Work , University of Connecticut

Delve In is led by Cathy Paton, an artist-researcher with a PhD in social work and a commitment to relational and arts-based practices. Guided by improvisation as a politicized art practice and years of experience in interdisciplinary collaboration, I create spaces where art, inquiry, and collaboration call forward connections and transformation. Whether supporting artists, facilitating workshops, or consulting with teams and communities, my work fosters curiosity, creativity, and intentional engagement.

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Curious about what’s possible?

Let’s begin a conversation about how Delve In can help foster connection, creativity, and impact in your work.

Cathy Paton (she/her)
MSW, PhD
Facilitator & Consultant

cathy@delveinsocialarts.com