Contemporary Kids: Creating with Chance

July 19 + 26

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a pattern-making workshop inspired by Ghazaleh Avarzamani’s exhibition Churn, Earn, Burn and then Return, where games become a lens for examining the systems that shape our everyday life. By rolling dice, kids will generate the rules to create their artworks, while exploring colour, composition, and ideas of control through playful chance.

What to expect: The session begins with a 25-minute guided tour of selected works from Churn, Earn, Burn, and then Return, followed by a hands-on art-making activity.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 25 children, with one guardian per child. 

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish not to be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival, and they will assist you.

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

The same workshop is offered in two sessions for your convenience: two sessions on July 19 and 26. Choose one session that suits your schedule best. 

Sunday, July 19
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, July 19
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, July 26
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, July 26
3:00-4:30 PM

About our Education Facilitators

Vicky Xingyu Gu
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Vicky Xingyu Gu is a Chinese animator who holds a BFA in Animation from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and an MFA in Digital Arts & Animation from the University of Southern California. During her studies, she explored narrative, documentary, and experimental forms of animation. Her works draw inspiration from cultural conflicts, emotional struggles, and societal issues, while experimenting with both digital and traditional media to create layered, hybrid, and provocative forms of storytelling. Since relocating to Calgary, she has become an active participant in the local arts community. She has been teaching various forms of animation with Quickdraw Animation Society and enjoys guiding participants of all ages through creative practices such as drawing, collage, mixed media, and visual storytelling. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and baking, watching animated movies, and playing horror games.

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi is a PhD candidate at the University of Calgary, with research focusing on children. She holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. Awards from both the University of Manitoba and the University of Calgary have supported her research on child neglect. Poppy has over six years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools across Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. She is passionate about activating children's critical and creative thinking through programs delivered in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking and playing chess.

Dandan Gu
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Shaping Colour, Building Place

May 17 + 24

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a hands-on workshop inspired by the visual structures in Stacking Crates to Reach a Banana by Richard Ibghy & Marilou Lemmens. 

Children will create their own compositions using colourful, translucent shapes. Working with a tangram-style approach, children will cut, arrange, and experiment with geometric forms while exploring space, composition, and how light and layering can transform a flat surface.

What to expect: The session begins with a 25-minute guided tour of selected works from Stacking Crates to Reach a Banana, followed by a hands-on art-making activity.

Our Free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 25 children, with one guardian per child.

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish not to be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival, and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on May 17 and two sessions on May 24. Choose one session that suits your schedule best. 

Sunday, May 17
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, May 17
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, May 24
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, May 24
3:00-4:30 PM

About our Education Facilitators

Vicky Xingyu Gu
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Vicky Xingyu Gu is a Chinese animator who holds a BFA in Animation from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and an MFA in Digital Arts & Animation from the University of Southern California. During her studies, she explored narrative, documentary, and experimental forms of animation. Her works draw inspiration from cultural conflicts, emotional struggles, and societal issues, while experimenting with both digital and traditional media to create layered, hybrid, and provocative forms of storytelling. Since relocating to Calgary, she has become an active participant in the local arts community. She has been teaching various forms of animation with Quickdraw Animation Society and enjoys guiding participants of all ages through creative practices such as drawing, collage, mixed media, and visual storytelling. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and baking, watching animated movies, and playing horror games.

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi is a PhD candidate at the University of Calgary, with research focusing on children. She holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. Awards from both the University of Manitoba and the University of Calgary have supported her research on child neglect. Poppy has over six years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools across Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. She is passionate about activating children's critical and creative thinking through programs delivered in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking and playing chess.

Dandan Gu
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Your Story in Layers

March 1 + 8

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a paper landscape workshop inspired by a selection of narrative-inspired artworks from our group exhibition Entwined! Kids will learn how to bring their stories to life by creating a layered artwork with paper cutouts, while exploring composition, depth and storytelling.

What to expect: The session begins with a 25-minute guided tour of selected works from Entwined, followed by a hands-on art-making activity.

Our Free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child. 

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish not to be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival, and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on March 1 and two sessions on March 8. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, March 1
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, March 1
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, March 8
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, March 8
3:00-4:30 PM

About our Education Facilitators

Riddhi Patel
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Riddhi Patel has training in both visual and performing arts, holding a Master of Fine Arts (Painting) from the University of Alberta, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Painting) from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, India, and a diploma in Kathak Dance. She also works with the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women, where she manages creative projects, and has taught undergraduate drawing at the University of Alberta. Her artistic research explores movement through drawing and investigates ways to bring together her dance and drawing practices. Currently, she is committed to promoting art-making in community settings with people of all ages. In her leisure time, Riddhi enjoys baking pies and capturing fleeting moments around the city.

Vicky Xingyu Gu
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Vicky Xingyu Gu is a Chinese animator who holds a BFA in Animation from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and an MFA in Digital Arts & Animation from the University of Southern California. During her studies, she explored narrative, documentary, and experimental forms of animation. Her works draw inspiration from cultural conflicts, emotional struggles, and societal issues, while experimenting with both digital and traditional media to create layered, hybrid, and provocative forms of storytelling. Since relocating to Calgary, she has become an active participant in the local arts community. She has been teaching various forms of animation with Quickdraw Animation Society and enjoys guiding participants of all ages through creative practices such as drawing, collage, mixed media, and visual storytelling. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and baking, watching animated movies, and playing horror games.

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi is a PhD candidate at the University of Calgary, with research focusing on children. She holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. Awards from both the University of Manitoba and the University of Calgary have supported her research on child neglect. Poppy has over six years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools across Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. She is passionate about activating children's critical and creative thinking through programs delivered in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking and playing chess.

Dandan Gu
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: When life gives us lemons … we will paint!

February 1 + 8

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for an “invisible ink” painting workshop inspired by Entwined, a group exhibition exploring natural and manufactured materials across different artistic mediums. Using lemon juice as a natural paint, kids will explore patterns, textures, and mark-making—and watch their hidden art come to life!

Friendly reminder: This workshop uses lemon and citron juice, which has a strong scent and may cause mild skin irritation.

What to expect: The session begins with a 25-minute guided tour of selected works from Entwined, followed by a hands-on art-making activity.

Our Free on-site Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child. 

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish not to be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival, and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on February 1, 2026 and two sessions on February 8, 2026. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, February 1
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, February 1
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, February 8
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, February 8
3:00-4:30 PM

About our Education Facilitators

Riddhi Patel
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Riddhi Patel has training in both visual and performing arts, holding a Master of Fine Arts (Painting) from the University of Alberta, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Painting) from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, India, and a diploma in Kathak Dance. She also works with the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women, where she manages creative projects, and has taught undergraduate drawing at the University of Alberta. Her artistic research explores movement through drawing and investigates ways to bring together her dance and drawing practices. Currently, she is committed to promoting art-making in community settings with people of all ages. In her leisure time, Riddhi enjoys baking pies and capturing fleeting moments around the city.

Vicky Xingyu Gu
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Vicky Xingyu Gu is a Chinese animator who holds a BFA in Animation from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and an MFA in Digital Arts & Animation from the University of Southern California. During her studies, she explored narrative, documentary, and experimental forms of animation. Her works draw inspiration from cultural conflicts, emotional struggles, and societal issues, while experimenting with both digital and traditional media to create layered, hybrid, and provocative forms of storytelling. Since relocating to Calgary, she has become an active participant in the local arts community. She has been teaching various forms of animation with Quickdraw Animation Society and enjoys guiding participants of all ages through creative practices such as drawing, collage, mixed media, and visual storytelling. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and baking, watching animated movies, and playing horror games.

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi is a PhD candidate at the University of Calgary, with research focusing on children. She holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. Awards from both the University of Manitoba and the University of Calgary have supported her research on child neglect. Poppy has over six years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools across Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. She is passionate about activating children's critical and creative thinking through programs delivered in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking and playing chess.

Dandan Gu
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Eyes, Ears, Mouth and Nose

November 16 + 23

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a fabric collage workshop inspired by Preston Pavlis’s mixed-media pieces in the exhibition You there! Kids will create tactile and expressive self-portraits out of recycled fabric. Together we will explore colours, shapes, and composition, while celebrating our own unique identity.

Our Free on-site Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 25 children, with one guardian per child.

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish not to be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival, and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, November 16 and two sessions on Sunday, November 23.

Sunday, November 16
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, November 16
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, November 23
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, November 23
3:00-4:30 PM

About our Education Facilitators

Riddhi Patel
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Riddhi Patel has training in both visual and performing arts, holding a Master of Fine Arts (Painting) from the University of Alberta, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Painting) from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, India, and a diploma in Kathak Dance. She also works with the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women, where she manages creative projects, and has taught undergraduate drawing at the University of Alberta. Her artistic research explores movement through drawing and investigates ways to bring together her dance and drawing practices. Currently, she is committed to promoting art-making in community settings with people of all ages. In her leisure time, Riddhi enjoys baking pies and capturing fleeting moments around the city.

Vicky Xingyu Gu
(she/her)

TD Education Facilitator

Vicky Xingyu Gu is a Chinese animator who holds a BFA in Animation from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and an MFA in Digital Arts & Animation from the University of Southern California. During her studies, she explored narrative, documentary, and experimental forms of animation. Her works draw inspiration from cultural conflicts, emotional struggles, and societal issues, while experimenting with both digital and traditional media to create layered, hybrid, and provocative forms of storytelling. Since relocating to Calgary, she has become an active participant in the local arts community. She has been teaching various forms of animation with Quickdraw Animation Society and enjoys guiding participants of all ages through creative practices such as drawing, collage, mixed media, and visual storytelling. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and baking, watching animated movies, and playing horror games.

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi is a PhD candidate at the University of Calgary, with research focusing on children. She holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. Awards from both the University of Manitoba and the University of Calgary have supported her research on child neglect. Poppy has over six years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools across Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. She is passionate about activating children's critical and creative thinking through programs delivered in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking and playing chess.

Dandan Gu
(she/her)

Education Facilitator

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Two-Part Art

October 5 + 12

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a painting workshop inspired by Erik Olson’s large-scale paintings in the exhibition In the Garden! Kids will explore a colourful and expressive world where imagination and reality meet, and create their own mini canvas diptychs—a two-part artwork where the pieces complement or contrast each other, meant to be experienced together as one.

Our free on-site Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child.

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish not to be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival, and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, October 5 and two sessions on Sunday, October 12.

Sunday, October 5
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, October 5
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, October 12
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, October 12
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Shaping Our Space

August 17 + 24

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a hands-on clay workshop inspired by Presence, a group exhibition exploring ideas of space and community. Kids will bring their ideas of fun, shared spaces to life by designing unique clay tablets inspired by a bird’s-eye view of a playground. Using clay as their canvas, they’ll carve, shape, and build their own version of a unique space — reflecting on how we connect, play, and belong.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child.

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish not to be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival, and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, August 17 and two sessions on Sunday, August 24. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, August 17
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, August 17
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, August 24
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, August 24
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Stories Inside the Box

July 20 +27

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a hands-on kids workshop inspired by Family Secrets, featured in the exhibition Witness by June Clark. Kids will bring their imaginations to life by creating miniature dioramas of their favourite room using small cardboard boxes as the base. Inspired by Clark’s exploration of personal stories and special places, kids will design unique boxed spaces by adding elements made from various art materials, natural objects, and string lights—transforming each box into a memory container that celebrates the family, moments, and rooms that matter most.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child.

Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish to not be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, July 20 and two sessions on Sunday, July 27. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, July 20
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, July 20
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, July 27
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, July 27
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Building Soundscapes with Musicians

June 15 + 22

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a hands-on musical workshop! As part of the Sound Atlas New Music Festival and this year’s theme of “Sonic Playground,” this session is led by the talented musicians of the Festival’s Contemporary Performance Lab (CPL) Fellows.

Kids and artists will team up to create a graphic score—a playful way to show how music might sound using sculpture, collage, and craft materials instead of traditional notes. Through this collective process, kids will explore musical instruments, improvisation, and non-conventional music-making. Together, we'll turn the graphic score into a unique sound piece that brings our ideas and feelings about Calgary to life.

No experience required—just bring your imagination! Part of the workshop will be hands-on, creating the graphic score, and the other half will feature a live performance by SAF musicians, bringing the visual work to life in an unique sound experience.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 25 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish to not be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, June 15 and two sessions on Sunday, June 22. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, June 15
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, June 15
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, June 22
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, June 22
3:00-4:30 PM

About Sound Atlas New Music Festival (SAF)

Already in its third year, the Sound Atlas New Music Festival (SAF) is a musical expedition for adventurous listeners, composers, and artists. With this year’s theme, “Sonic Playground,” guests are invited to revel in a state of play where whimsy meets the unexpected in a veritable feast for curious ears and imagination.

This year, SAF is delighted to feature the spirited genius of our featured Korean-American composer Juri Seo, a “modern original” whose music has been praised for its extraordinary charm and inventiveness. Along with the rest of the wonderful artist lineup, guests can expect a wondrous and eclectic experience in music and sound, featuring performances from SAF’s host ensemble Latitude 49, local Calgary performers, and guests from across North America and beyond in a joyful explosion of friendship and creativity.

Sound Atlas New Music Festival is supported by Walt and Irene Deboni.

Director of Education, 2025 Sound Atlas New Music Festival: Yuan Ge

Yuan Ge holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Business & Management from Berklee College of Music and a Master’s degree in Music Industry Leadership from Northeastern University. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. degree in Music Education at the University of Calgary.

Originally from the music business world, Yuan spearheaded marketing efforts for artists such as Christina Aguilera and Kenshi Yonezu in his previous positions. Now with over four years of music education experience in both private and public capacities, he hopes to exercise his expertise in creative marketing and education as the Director of Education for this year’s Sound Atlas New Music Festival. In his spare time, Yuan likes to tinker with guitars, cameras, and cars.

Jerry Liao (Piano)

Born in Fuzhou, China, Canadian pianist Bo Xuan (Jerry) Liao resides in Calgary, Alberta, where he is an active soloist and collaborative pianist. Jerry is in his third year of a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance at the University of Calgary, studying with Dr. Jani Parsons.

Most recently, Jerry won first prize in Category IV of the VI Vienna International Chopin Competition. He has had the opportunity to work with notable musicians including Steven Spooner, Henry Kramer, and Yakov Kasman.

In 2023, Jerry had the privilege of collaborating with acclaimed Chinese Canadian composer Vincent Ho, culminating in the world premiere performance of The Galloping Horse from The Twelve Chinese Zodiac Animals, Book 2.

In addition to his work as a piano soloist, Jerry is a passionate chamber musician and collaborator, recently performing John Burge’s Four Violin Concerto with violinists Isaac Willocks, Sora Kim, Ana Gonzalez Carmona, and Gaby Nunez. Jerry has an avid interest in the field of pedagogy and is a dynamic teacher of piano and music theory. Outside of music, Jerry enjoys playing badminton and eating delicious cuisine.

Teaghan Krahn (Cello)

Teaghan, age 16, started cello lessons with Beth Root-Sandvoss at 4 years old, and has been in the Cello Academy for Young Artists at Mount Royal University in Calgary since she was 6 years old. She is currently one of the Principal Cellos for the CYO and has been playing in the orchestra for the past 3 years. She has received many awards and scholarships for her cello playing, including a provincial recommendation from the Calgary Performing Arts Festival, the Jeanette Whitney Memorial Scholarship and scholarships from the Calgary Youth Orchestra. She was also named one of the ‘Stars of the Festival’ for the Calgary Performing Arts Festival in 2018 and 2024, and played in their gala concert. She was also a Contemporary Performance Lab Fellow for the Sound Atlas Festival in 2024. She was a finalist in the Canadian Music Competition in 2019 and won 1st place in the Contemporary Showcase Competition in 2017. She also plays piano and received First Class Honours with Distinction for her grade 8 exam in 2024 and received a Provincial Gold Medal from the Royal Conservatory for piano in 2021. She also received First Class Honours with Distinction for her Grade 10 cello exam in 2023. Teaghan enjoys playing in a piano trio with her sisters, regularly performing in church and seniors’ homes. She also enjoys reading, building Lego, and enjoying time with her family, friends and dog, Arwyn.

Aidan Rigor (Saxophone)

Aidan Rigor is a 4th-year student at the University of Calgary studying Music Performance for the saxophone. He has been studying under Dr. Jeremy Brown for over 10 years, taking classical saxophone lessons. Aidan was a member of the YYC Lab Band, University of Calgary Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Orchestra, and was a member of saxophone quartets. Currently, Aidan is a member of a mixed trio of flute, saxophone, and piano called the Contour Trio. Throughout his studies, Aidan has taken a keen interest in saxophone extended techniques, which has led him to explore all kinds of contemporary works regarding circular breathing, multiphonics, and subtones.

Gabrielle Marquis (Flute)

Gabrielle Marquis is in the final year of her Bachelor of Music in flute performance at the University of Calgary, where she studies with Lucie Jones. A dedicated ensemble musician, she has served as principal flute with the University of Calgary Orchestra for the past three seasons and has been a member of the Wind Ensemble since the start of her degree. Outside of university, Gabby is a long-time participant in the Academy Programme for Young Artists at the MRU Conservatory. Alongside her performance work, she is passionate about music education and teaches privately. She also has a growing interest in instrument repair.

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Appreciation of Home and Land

April 20 + 27

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a sign-making workshop inspired by Wish you were here by Lauren Crazybull! Through hands-on activities, kids will bring their experiences and connection to the land to life by creating their own personal signs, reflecting their love for the earth while exploring Crazybull’s journey and her bond with her ancestral home.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 20 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish to not be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, April 20 and two sessions on Sunday, April 27. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, April 20
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, April 20
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, April 27
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, April 27
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Hummingbirds, Homes, and Journeys

March 23 + 30

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Join us for a fun kids workshop inspired by Hummingbird Guided Meditation by Miruna Drăgan & Maggie Tiesenhausen. Through hands-on activities, children will bring their imaginations to life by creating their own papier-mâché nests. They’ll explore the incredible migration journey of hummingbirds between Mexico and Canada—discovering what they see, experience, and how they carry their stories.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish to not be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, March 23 and two sessions on Sunday, March 30. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, March 23
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, March 23
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, March 30
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, March 30
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Framing New Perspectives

February 23 + March 2

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

Exhibition Tour and Framing Workshop Inspired by the 2025 Exposure Photography Festival

Exploring photography works from the Exposure Photography Festival exhibitions, kids will discover how a simple frame can completely transform a picture, all while considering how photographers make choices—what to include, what to leave out, and why. Kids will then create their very own unique frames to bring these ideas to life. It’s a fun way to discover fresh perspectives and see the world in a whole new light!

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 40 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

Contemporary Calgary Educational Programs are often photographed. This photography includes the participants, parents or guardians and their creations. If you wish to not be photographed, please let Contemporary Calgary education staff know upon arrival and they will assist you.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, February 23 and two sessions on Sunday, March 2. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, February 23
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, February 23
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, March 2
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, March 2
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Lunar New Year Special Contemporary Kids Program
Share Your Wishes and Showcase Creations

January 12 + 19

12:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

This January, join us for two exciting workshops in partnership with the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre and Artistry Unite Association. These drop-in creative sessions will take place on Sunday, January 12, and Sunday, January 19, from 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

Kids will have the opportunity to explore the art of Chinese ink calligraphy and brush painting while designing playful patterns on rice paper attached to modular boxes. Together, participants will contribute to a collaborative artwork, the Snake Modular Box, made from hundreds of these boxes to express best wishes for 2025.

The final artwork will be displayed at the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre as part of the Lunar New Year celebration for the Year of the Snake on January 26. Families are invited to attend the celebration to view the exhibition and enjoy a fun and festive event!

Please note:

• Children will leave their workshop creations for inclusion in the final exhibition.

• If you'd like to pick up your child’s artwork, it will be available at a future workshop after February.

Come and celebrate creativity, culture, and community with us!

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

These are drop-in sessions, no registration is needed for this special Contemporary Kids program.

For children ages 5-12, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

About Our Community Partners

About our TD Educational Coordinator

Yilu Xing (she/her)

Yilu Xing is an artist-educator with a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from the Alberta University of the Arts and a Master's degree in Fine Arts from the University of Alberta, specialized in Printmaking. Xing is the recipient of grants and scholarships from the Canada Council for the Arts and the Social Science and Humanities Research Council, which support her research exploring themes related to culinary cultures, human connections, and the transmission of traditions within immigrant families. Her recent work includes public-based interactive installations, prints, drawings, ceramics, and videos. Xing has also taught art courses within the community and at the University of Alberta.

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Shaghayegh (Poppy) Ghasemi is a PhD candidate at the University of Calgary, with research focusing on children. She holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. Awards from both the University of Manitoba and the University of Calgary have supported her research on child neglect. Poppy has over five years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools across Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. She is passionate about activating children's critical and creative thinking through programs delivered in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River.  

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Friends in the Forest

December 1 + 8

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for the Future Wildlife Craft Workshop, inspired by Mia & Eric’s video from the exhibition In a Strange Place.

During this hands-on workshop, children will draw inspiration from the artists' imaginative exploration of forests and their caretakers. They will craft their own unique animal faces to wear on their heads. This engaging activity fosters artistic expression and encourages kids to consider conservation, climate awareness, and how creativity can deepen our understanding and care for the world around us.

*On December 1st, we will be inviting Calgary Wildlife to present porcupines from their Wild Wise program series. Along with crafting porcupine masks, we will step into the paws and claws of our neighbours through song, dance, drama, and much more!

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, December 1 and two sessions on Sunday, December 8. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, December 1
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, December 1
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, December 8
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, December 8
3:00-4:30 PM

About Calgary Wildlife

Calgary Wildlife was established in 1993 and is the only wildlife veterinary hospital in the City of Calgary.  Each year, we provide people from Calgary and surrounding areas with expert and compassionate care for the wildlife that live in our communities and wild spaces.  We treat and rehabilitate animals so they are ready to return to the wild and release them in ways that help them thrive. Calgary Wildlife is more than a veterinary hospital and rehabilitation centre.  We contribute to larger studies and conservation efforts by tracking and contributing patient information.  We support humans to live in harmony with wildlife through education, public service announcements, and a hotline for information and support when people meet with injured or orphaned wildlife.  We spark awe and wonder for the natural world in our youth and provide solutions for wildlife related issues to the public. 

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Mini Eco-Explorers

November 17 + 24

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for the natural wildlife craft Workshop inspired by Paola Pivi’s playful exhibition Come check it out. 

Inspired by Pivi’s imaginative take on animals and the environment, this hands-on workshop invites kids to craft their own wildlife creatures using natural bark pieces. Children will uncover and shape animal silhouettes, bringing them to life with natural materials and recycled items. This fun activity encourages participants to explore themes of climate change, environmental awareness, and recycling through art and creativity.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, November 17 and two sessions on Sunday, November 24. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, November 17
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, November 17
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, November 24
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, November 24
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: My Chess, My Rules

October 20 + 27

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for the Chess making Workshop inspired by Marcel Dzama’s exhibition Ghosts of Canoe Lake. 

This hands-on workshop invites kids to design their own custom chess boards, create whimsical pieces, and invent fun new rules—like a king who loves to cook or a knight who enjoys dancing. Inspired by Marcel Dzama’s video work, children will reimagine traditional chess, using their creations to tell unique stories and infuse the game with humour, fantasy, and personal flair.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, October 20 and two sessions on Sunday, October 27. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, October 20
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, October 20
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, October 27
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, October 27
3:00-4:30 PM

About the Artist

Marcel Dzama (he/him)

Since rising to prominence in the late 1990s, Marcel Dzama (b. 1974) has developed an immediately recognizable visual language that draws from folk vernacular, art-historical, and contemporary influences. 

Born in Winnipeg, Canada, Dzama received his BFA in 1997 from the University of Manitoba. Since 1998, his work has been represented by David Zwirner. He has exhibited widely throughout the United States and abroad. In November 2023, Dzama presented To Live on the Moon (For Lorca) a film and performance commissioned by Performa as part of Performa Biennial 2023. Recent solo exhibitions by the artist include Marcel Dzama: Viviendo en el limbo y soñando con el paraíso at the Museo de Arte de Zapopan (MAZ), Mexico, in 2022; Marcel Dzama: An End to the End Times at the Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art, Georgia, in 2021; and Marcel Dzama: Tonight We Dance at the Sara Hildén Art Museum in Tampere, Finland, in 2021. 

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Masks & Magic

September 15 + 22

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for a Mystic Masks Magic workshop inspired by Marcel Dzama’s exhibition, Ghosts of Canoe Lake: New Work by Marcel Dzama.

We’ll explore the magical and whimsical elements of folklore and create our own ghostly eye masks. This hands-on session encourages self-expression and brings to life the dreamlike stories found in Dzama’s art. Don’t miss the chance to transform into a character from a fantastical realm!

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, September 15 and two sessions on Sunday, September 22. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, September 15
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, September 15
3:00-4:30 PM

*Following this workshop there will be a FREE film screening of Where the Wild Things Are (2009), dir. Spike Jonze in the Dome Theatre at 5 PM. CLICK HERE to register. 

Sunday, September 22
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, September 22
3:00-4:30 PM

About the Artist

Marcel Dzama (he/him)

Since rising to prominence in the late 1990s, Marcel Dzama (b. 1974) has developed an immediately recognizable visual language that draws from folk vernacular, art-historical, and contemporary influences. 

Born in Winnipeg, Canada, Dzama received his BFA in 1997 from the University of Manitoba. Since 1998, his work has been represented by David Zwirner. He has exhibited widely throughout the United States and abroad. In November 2023, Dzama presented To Live on the Moon (For Lorca) a film and performance commissioned by Performa as part of Performa Biennial 2023. Recent solo exhibitions by the artist include Marcel Dzama: Viviendo en el limbo y soñando con el paraíso at the Museo de Arte de Zapopan (MAZ), Mexico, in 2022; Marcel Dzama: An End to the End Times at the Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art, Georgia, in 2021; and Marcel Dzama: Tonight We Dance at the Sara Hildén Art Museum in Tampere, Finland, in 2021. 

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Colour, Tunnel and Kaleidoscope

August 11 + August 18

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for a Kaleidoscope Workshop inspired by Marie Lannoo’s exhibition In Extremis.

Drawing inspiration from Marie Lannoo’s work in the exhibition In Extremis, this hands-on workshop offers a special experience that explores the beauty of light, colours, and reflections. Kids and parents are invited to work together to make a simple kaleidoscope. This fun activity allows participants to think about and see how light and colour work together to create beautiful permutations.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 40 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, August 11 and two sessions on Sunday, August 18. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, August 11
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, August 11
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, August 18
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, August 18
3:00-4:30 PM

About the Artist

Marie Lannoo

Marie Lannoo was born in Delhi, Ontario. She attended the University of Saskatchewan and studied painting at the Banff School of Arts and at Emma Lake Artists’ Workshops as well as in Virton, Belgium. Her work has been shown in exhibitions throughout Canada and internationally.   

Moving between abstraction and representation, Lannoo’s paintings exert a potent physiological effect on viewers. Imminent art historian Roald Nasgaard comments: “Lannoo’s work draws the viewer deep into internal illusions replete with reflected invasions from the external world. At the same time, it reaches out to embrace and enfold itself around the body of the viewer, who sees the world as if with eyes in the back of his/her/their head.”

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Dream, Fantasy and Gleaming Midnight

July 28 + August 4

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for a Papier-mâché Workshop inspired by Marcel Dzama’s exhibition Ghosts of Canoe Lake: New Work by Marcel Dzama.

Drawing inspiration from the fantasy world created by Marcel Dzama in his exhibition Ghosts of Canoe Lake, this workshop invites kids to explore the connection between the seen and unseen. Participants will gain hands-on experience by creating a papier-mâché moon sculpture themed around the mysteries, wonders, and imagination of dark nights.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 40 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, July 28 and two sessions on Sunday, August 4. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, July 28
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, July 28
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, August 4
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, August 4
3:00-4:30 PM

About the Artist

Marcel Dzama (he/him)

Since rising to prominence in the late 1990s, Marcel Dzama (b. 1974) has developed an immediately recognizable visual language that draws from folk vernacular, art-historical, and contemporary influences. 

Born in Winnipeg, Canada, Dzama received his BFA in 1997 from the University of Manitoba. Since 1998, his work has been represented by David Zwirner. He has exhibited widely throughout the United States and abroad. In November 2023, Dzama presented To Live on the Moon (For Lorca) a film and performance commissioned by Performa as part of Performa Biennial 2023. Recent solo exhibitions by the artist include Marcel Dzama: Viviendo en el limbo y soñando con el paraíso at the Museo de Arte de Zapopan (MAZ), Mexico, in 2022; Marcel Dzama: An End to the End Times at the Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art, Georgia, in 2021; and Marcel Dzama: Tonight We Dance at the Sara Hildén Art Museum in Tampere, Finland, in 2021. 

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids: Plants, Bodies, and Nature

June 23 + 30

1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM
Workshop

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for a Paper Plants Making Workshop inspired by Winnie Truong’s exhibition Curious Nature.

Drawing inspiration from the delicate paper sculptures featured in the Curious Nature exhibition, kids will engage in drawing and hands-on activities during the workshop to explore the similarities and connections between plant components and parts of our bodies. This workshop provides kids with the opportunity to understand the natural growth process, enhance their self-body awareness, and discover the relationships among plants, our bodies, and the natural world.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 40 children, with one guardian per child. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, June 23 and two sessions on Sunday, June 30. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, June 23
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, June 23
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, June 30
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, June 30
3:00-4:30 PM

About the artist

Winnie Truong (she/her)

Winnie Truong is a Toronto artist working with drawing and collage to explore ideas of identity, feminism, and fantasy along with a digital art and animation practice that includes public art and community engagement. She has exhibited across Canada, the US and Europe with solo presentations at Volta New York Art Fair, Pulse Miami Art Fair and Art Toronto. Truong is a 2017 recipient of the Chalmers Arts Fellowship and. Her work can be found in private collections, The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, Overland Park, Kansas, Doris McCarthy Gallery at the University of Toronto, Bank of Denmark, EQ Bank, Scotiabank Fine Art Collection, RBC Art Collection and TD Bank Corporate Art Collection.

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids
Forest, Creature and Fairytale

May 5+12
1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM

For children ages 5-12.

Join us for Planting and Clay Sculpting Workshop inspired by Derek Liddington’s exhibition the trees weep, the mountain still, the bodies rust.

Inspired by the trees weep, the mountain still, the bodies rust by Derek Liddington, this workshop invites kids to dive into the fairytale forest envisioned by Liddington and unleash creativity through hands-on activities with clay sculpting and planting. This workshop offers a wonderful opportunity to explore diverse perspectives, feelings, and relationships between the forest and ourselves.

*This workshop involves hands-on activities with plant seeds and potting soil.  If your child has any sensitivities to these materials, we recommend bringing gloves to ensure their comfort during the activities.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities.

For children ages 5-12. Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child.Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

*In case you are unable to attend, kindly inform us by emailing education@contemporarycalgary.com at least 48 hours in advance so someone else can attend.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, May 5 and two sessions on Sunday, May 12. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, May 5
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, May 5
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, May 12
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, May 12
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by

Contemporary Kids
Dimensions, Mixed-Media and Sculpture

April 7 + 14
1-2:30 PM or 3-4:30 PM

For children ages 5-12.

Exhibition Tour and Mixed-Media Sculpture Workshop inspired by the Exhibition Surface, by Anton Ginzburg.

Inspired by Surface by Anton Ginzburg, this hands-on Mixed-Media Sculpture workshop invites kids to explore the fun of making mix media sculpture, while considering ideas related to different dimensions, feelings and how our brain can work as an algorithm.

Our free onsite Contemporary Kids programs invite children to learn about modern and contemporary art through unique and engaging art activities. 

Maximum group of 30 children, with one guardian per child.Questions? Please visit our FAQ page.

The same workshop is offered in four sessions for your convenience: two sessions on Sunday, April 7 and two sessions on Sunday, April 14. Choose one session that suits your schedule best.

Sunday, April 7
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, April 7
3:00-4:30 PM

Sunday, April 14
1:00-2:30 PM

Sunday, April 14
3:00-4:30 PM

About our TD Educational Facilitators

Poppy Ghasemi (she/her)

Poppy holds a bachelor's degree in Museum Studies and a master's in Anthropology. The awards she received from the University of Manitoba supported her research on child neglect. She has over four years of hands-on experience working with children and youth in museums and schools in Iran, Turkey, and Canada. Before joining Contemporary Calgary, she was a program educator at the Manitoba Children's Museum. Poppy primarily focuses on activating children's critical and creative thinking skills while delivering programs in English, French, Farsi, and Turkish. She enjoys cooking and walking with her husky along the Bow River during her leisure time.

Dandan Gu (she/her)

Dandan Gu graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Design. Prior to that, she obtained her first bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China. Dandan has worked as a graphic designer for various companies and creative projects. Currently, she passionately serves as an educational assistant for art-making programs within the community, sharing her creative expertise with young learners. In her free time, Dandan enjoys practicing ink art, Chinese calligraphy, and illustrating cats and people around her.

Supported by

Supported by