Makers-in-Residence Program (2022-2023)

The Library offered its first Makers-in-Residence program from December 2022 - March 2023. This program created opportunities for Winnipeggers to connect in-person with local makers to learn, create, and collaborate. Two residency opportunities were available and ran at the same time.

MiRs Sean McLachlan and Osani Balkran standing in the ideaMILL.

The Library invited applications from local artists and makers. The individuals chosen would exhibit creative skills in visual arts, digital media, music, and/or manufacturing. They would have experience engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and a passion for sharing their skills with others. Two local artists joined the Library as its first Makers-in-Residence: Osani Balkaran, a Guyanese/Cree abstract rapper and music producer, and Sean McLachlan, an artist and letterpress printer.

Residency

Through their residencies, the Makers-in-Residence delivered workshops for adults and youth and offered weekly scheduled drop-in programs. Both also worked on collaborative projects that showcased their artistry and incorporated the voices of Winnipeggers.

The culmination of the residencies was the launch of both Makers' collaborative projects: Osani Balkaran's "Pandemic Sounds and Rhythms" and Sean McLachlan's "Pandemic Postcard Time Capsule" outside the ideaMILL on March 30, 2023.

Explore the Collaborative Projects

Osani Balkaran

Pandemic Sounds and Rhythms, 2023

Soundscape created using percussive instruments, iPads, iPhones, and software

Pandemic Sounds and Rhythms is a synthetic soundscape inspired by the public. The goal was to have conversation and discussion about how people managed their emotions during the lockdowns and through that find sounds that relate to cathartic practices.

Sean McLachlan

Pandemic Postcard Time Capsule, 2023

Letterpress postcard prints using laser-cut bamboo printing blocks

The Pandemic Postcard Time capsule is a collection of postcards created by library visitors using the artist's Letter Peddler Press. The postcards were designed and printed by participants. Participants wrote stories and messages to their future selves, documenting life in Winnipeg at the present.

The Winnipeg Public Library gratefully acknowledges the Government of Canada for funding this program that reached more than 400 individuals directly through its activities, and the Makers-in-Residence who went on this exciting journey with us.

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