There were fashion icons juxtaposed with horses and lemons; a ladybug atop an ancient Roman tower; floral print mixed with mushrooms and socks. A map, a fish, and some wallpaper. A stroll down memory lane; a meander somewhere between dreamscapes and conscious aesthetic choices; and a chance to relax, connect, and explore. On Saturday, June 9, visitors gathered at DHC/ART to take part in the Open House. Some visited the exhibition and entered into a dialogue about the works; others went straight for the workshop. Emily Jan, the artist who developed the workshop in collaboration with DHC/ART Education, was present to explain and inspire.

Something to Write Home About is a workshop that invites participants to bring a used and abandoned plate from home and transform it into a commemorative souvenir. Using cloth, textured paper and found images, participants compose their creations based on memories, dreams, and imaginations. Some people came with an idea in mind: one woman, for example, arrived ready to make a plate for her son, who is preparing to leave home for university. Others came with a blank slate: a white plate and no preconceived ideas in mind. In all cases, the outcome was wonderful – aesthetically interesting, and full of thought and care. Strangers exchanged ideas, friends bonded, and the tables were covered with colour and texture.

Thanks to Emily Jan for such a thoughtful workshop, and to all of the participants for their creativity!

If you would like to participate in the workshop, there are still a few opportunities left: sign up for a group visit with a minimum of ten friends, and you can book the workshop as well. We will be holding a Family Open House on Saturday, August 18 from 2 PM to 4 PM. You must make a reservation for this activity by sending an email to [email protected]. Or, join us on Sunday, September 9 from 1 PM to 5 PM, when Emily will be leading a Happening. The Happening, a slightly modified version of the workshop, marks the end of the exhibition and the workshop. Stay tuned for more details!

All activities are free of charge. See you there!

Amanda Beattie
DHC/ART Education

Photos: Amanda Beattie and Marie-Hélène Lemaire