Cultural Threads is a community-based arts project that brings together diverse community members through storytelling, creativity, and cultural exchange. Through collaborative artmaking workshops, participants explored themes of identity, migration, memory, family, food, tradition, and belonging by creating personal and collective artworks using mixed media and textile inspired approaches.
The project fostered intergenerational dialogue and celebrated the rich cultural experiences of participants while creating a welcoming space for connection, self-expression, and community building. The project culminated in a public exhibition showcasing participant-made artworks, highlighting the unique stories, perspectives, and cultural “threads” that connect communities together.
The Cultural Threads project by Alberta Network of Immigrant Women (ANIW) was made possible through the generosity, creativity, and collaboration of many individuals and organizations. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every participant who shared their stories, cultures, and artistic expressions with us. Your openness, enthusiasm, and willingness to connect with one another are what brought this project to life.
We sincerely thank our talented facilitators – Jeny Matthews Thusoo, Saloni Sharma, Mohar Gupta, Day Pajarillo, Thea Galang, and Cecilia Alcaraz – for thoughtfully designing and leading workshops that inspired creativity, encouraged meaningful conversations, and fostered connections across cultures and generations.
Our deepest appreciation also goes to our community collaborators: Generations Calgary, Focus on Seniors, the Philippine Consulate General, the Filipino Arts and Cultural Society of Alberta, Trellis Society (North East), and Salingpusa Magazine. Your partnership, encouragement, and generous support through your time, spaces, networks, and expertise played an invaluable role in the success of this project.
We gratefully acknowledge the Government of Alberta for its financial support, which made the Cultural Threads project possible.
Finally, we recognize and thank the dedicated ANIW staff members, volunteers, and everyone working behind the scenes whose commitment, coordination, and care ensured the success of every workshop, event, and exhibition.
Together, you have helped weave a colourful tapestry of stories, creativity, and community that will continue to inspire, long after the project’s conclusion.
