Marking Our Stories: The Heritage Workshop Experience
Welcome to the Heritage Workshop, an innovative new space located on the fourth level of Ādisōke, where creativity, exploration, and connection flourish through the art and technology of mark making. This unique Library and Archives Canada (LAC) makerspace invites visitors of all ages and backgrounds to engage in a tactile experience that celebrates personal expression and storytelling.
As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a spacious layout featuring high, undulating ceilings that create a sense of openness and possibility.
The space features three distinct zones: a lounge area for relaxation and reflection, a display area for sharing completed projects and other sources of inspiration, and a large crafting area with ample tables for messy creation. With high ceilings and large windows that flood the space with natural light, the Heritage Workshop is not only inspiring but also a vibrant hub for cultural dialogue.
At the Heritage Workshop, mark making transcends traditional boundaries. It encompasses a wide array of activities—from sketching and journaling to screen printing and collage. Here, users can document their experiences, identities, and emotions, transforming thoughts into tangible creations. This space acknowledges the diverse narratives of our communities and provides tools that empower everyone, regardless of literacy, culture or language, to share their stories.
Equipped with an exciting range of analog tools, including manual typewriters, stamps, and printing equipment, the Heritage Workshop encourages a break from our digital routines. Visitors can immerse themselves in hands-on activities that rekindle the joy of making, experimenting with techniques that are both novel and nostalgic. Whether you’re a tourist creating a quick souvenir or an artist collaborating on a longer project, this workshop is designed to accommodate both spontaneous and structured activities.
Programming in the Heritage Workshop includes a variety of classes and workshops tailored to inspire creativity and skill development. Offerings range from block printing and calligraphy to storytelling through play and traditional Indigenous mark making techniques. Special events and collaborations with local artists and cultural communities will further enrich the space, fostering connections and expanding the narrative tapestry that lives here.
By bridging the gap between personal expression and community heritage, the Heritage Workshop aligns with the mission of LAC to capture and celebrate the diverse stories of Canadians. This makerspace is more than just a place to create; it is a living archive of experiences, inviting everyone to participate in documenting their lives and legacies.
Step into the Heritage Workshop and discover a world where your story can live through mark making. Whether you’re crafting a comic book, creating a poster, or simply doodling in a journal, you’ll find a welcoming environment that celebrates the art of expression and the beauty of connection. Come and make your mark!