Pathways
The inspiration
The pathways we take today are built around corridors carved by melting glaciers, which merge with the trajectories taken by insects/birds, animal-dug tunnels and are all intersected by Indigenous Peoples’ paths.
The Result
In collaboration with Neilson Park Creative Centre, Pathways offered 26 art-making workshops were we created without generating waste, while learning about the land where we live.
The community surrounding Neilson Park was invited to explore the park and its nearby habitats with fresh eyes. Through songs, storytelling, nature walks, guided forging and slow artmaking projects, participants gained a sense of place.
Platform
Artist in the Park grant
Learning about the land where we live
Young Spiritual Elder Philip Cote shared his wisdom with project participants through Birch Bark Scroll Teachings and a Medicine Walk.

Anishinaabe Water Teachings
Artist and activist Aqua Nibii Waawaaskone shared teachings of the waters that run through mother earth and through our veins.

Mark Making
Artist Linda Naccarato inspired participants to make their own inks and discover the whimsical qualities of ink.

Nature Exploration Walks
Naturalist Lee Earl encouraged participants to connect with nature by visiting the ravine. She shared knowledge about seasonal changes, local birds and animals, and properties of medicinal plants.

Weaving in Nature
Artist Claudia Apablaza showed participants how to craft intricate willow baskets, sew with grass, and weave found natural materials.

We are all connected
For the final sculpture, clay, weavings and found-materials were intertwined to create a circular installation that tried to capture the interconnections between trees, plants, birds, insects, animals and water. All artwork was ephemeral and returned to nature.

Pathways Gallery
My Role
Program Curator, art and nature educator
Supported by
Toronto Arts Council
Location
Neilson Park
Tools
Hand crafted pens, charcoal and ink, clay, willow and cedar for weaving
Participants
Over 400 children, youth, parents, elders
Dates
Summer 2022