multi-disciplinary art programming led by + for collective members
Mindful Makers is an arts + mental health collective in Thunder Bay that creates dedicated space for artists and makers* with extraordinary minds to:
make and exhibit work,
exchange and advance skills, and
expand our professional networks.
Through our creative public presentations and events, we nurture & develop a compassionate community engaged in grassroots social change work.
*artists and makers: we acknowledge that many creative folx do not identify as “artists,” but use the term “maker” to describe their creative practice (individuals working in fine craft, for instance).
What would you like to see happen in our future?
Here is a 5 question survey to gather ideas for what kinds of art projects and initiatives you’d like to be a part of in 2025-2026— a workshop series, an arts showcase? Let us know!
Your responses will help shape and direct applications for funding.
Spring 2024 we hosted an interdisciplinary exploration with guidance from multidisciplinary artist, ELEANOR ALBANESE. Collaboratively, we wove art forms together to ignite forest lore; culminating with an interactive performance at Willow Springs Creative Centre.
Artistic Director: Eleanor Albanese
Project Coordinator: Caroline Kajorinne
Videography: Nolan Dennhardt
COLLABORATING ARTISTS:
Eleanor Albanese
Lorrina Belluz
Betty Carpick
Binaeshee-Quae Couchie Nabigon
Donnet
Robin Faye
Zoe Gordon
Tuija Hansen
Jillian Jurimae
Caroline Kajorinne
Natalia Moskwa
Nolan Schmerk
…and many more artists contributed to our drop-in sessions and the final presentation! THANK YOU
This project is made possible thanks to our volunteer fundraising committee, individual donations, with support from our community partners: Lakehead University Visual Arts Department, Willow Springs Creative Centre, Tamarack Arts Festival, and with funding from the Ontario Arts Council, an agency of the Government of Ontario.
Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/mindful_makers_collective/
From 2018 to 2020,
we grew to serve more than 50 member artists and paid 28 arts facilitators to lead 61 workshops for 482 participants in our community!
Our peer-to-peer support model fosters social connection, creative inspiration and innovation, and skill-sharing among artists and makers.
To read more about us visit www.mindfulmakers.org/our-story
“I credit Mindful Makers Collective in exploding my creativity. I’m a wandering artist. Mindful Makers keeps me focussed on creating; there’s always something going on / opportunities for learning. I would have lost faith in myself for periods of time.”
— Christine Cherniski
Time sure does fly!
It's hard to believe we've been offering workshops since September 2018! Which has all been made possible thanks to Workman Arts Scaling Project, supportive member artists, and our partners.
Find out what protocols are in place when we gather in person.
Interested in membership?
We’re always looking for new members and opportunities to connect. Visit www.mindfulmakers.org/membership-info to find out more.
Please note: onboarding new members is currently paused during the Covid-19 pandemic (to limit the work for all involved). If you are 18+, live in Tbay/surrounding areas and self-identify as having lived experience, you're welcome to join us for our opportunities!