cSPACE Projects

Battle Equipped Book Launch
2023-06-24 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Edmonton) | cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
Join me for an exciting book launch event filled with keynote speakers, appetizers, and networking!
Join us for an exciting book launch event for Battle Equipped: 40 Day Devotional to Conquer the War in Your Mind.
Not only will you hear from some fantastic keynote speakers; you will also get the chance to create a healthy community and foster new connections! Food and drinks will also be provided by the wonderful Aroma Cafe.
This is a great opportunity to gain insights, inspiration, and practical tools to help you on your journey. Don’t miss out on this amazing event that will equip you to overcome any obstacle and live the life you were meant to live!

Stories of Exclusion
2023-06-25 13:30 - 16:00, 2023-06-26 13:30 - 16:00, 2023-06-27 13:30 - 16:00 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
STORIES OF EXCLUSION
After years of Head Tax did not stop Chinese immigration, the Canadian government passed legislation that effectively stopped immigration from China for 24 years. The ironically named Chinese Immigration Act came into effect on July 1st, 1923. The holiday known as Dominion Day was called “Day of Humiliation” by the Chinese community. It was not repealed for 24 years. This legislation can create a complex relationship for persons of Chinese ancestry as they consider their identity as Canadians. The ‘Exclusion Act’ impacted the community in ways we are only now beginning to understand. It created an imbalance in male/female ratio within the Chinese community, and forced family separations for decades.
STORIES OF EXCLUSION is a workshop which will see Chinese community members share their hidden histories with Asian artists. The artist witnesses will use those stories as inspiration for their creative practice. Members of the public are also invited to witness these stories; however, we ask that you RSVP in advance with dale.kwong@shaw.ca Due to the sensitive nature of the interviews, there may be restrictions on access, and/or artists may be in rehearsal.
Throughout the project, Calgarians can learn more about Calgary’s first Chinatowns through the We Were Here: Stories of Early Chinatown exhibit on display a cSpace Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub. This exhibit was first created by Lougheed House National and Provincial Historic Site. As few artifacts remain from the early years of Calgary’s Chinatown, 5 artists were invited to imagine stories from that time and an illustrator brought it all to life. The exhibit is on long-term loan to the Chinese Cultural Centre and they have graciously allowed Stories of Exclusion to help create the atmosphere of the space we are using by surrounding ourselves wth the exhibit.
On Canada Day, we will host an alternative celebration at cSpace Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub. Canada Day: Stories of Exclusion will honour the hidden histories of the Chinese community as a result of the Chinese Immigration Act. Lion Dancers will chase away the evil spirits of the Chinese Immigration (Exclusion) Act, and artists will share how this project affected them and perhaps inspired projects for the future. We invite all who wish to reflect on the complicated history of this day.
Interview collection and research:

Friday, June 23 to Tuesday, June 27 – 1:30 to 4pm

Interviews:

Friday, June 23 – Dale Lee Kwong, anon interview
Sat, June 24 – Ronald Lee
Sun, June 25 – Lloyd Sciban (Historian, author of From Chopsticks to Hockey Sticks)

Note:
If you are a Chinese settler and have Stories of Exclusion you would like to share with the project team, please contact dale.kwong@shaw.ca

STORIES OF EXCLUSION – Chinese Canadian History with Lloyd Sciban
2023-06-26 13:30 - 14:30 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
Lloyd Sciban is a retired professor of East Asian Studies at the University of Calgary who volunteers actively in Calgary Chinatown. His research interests are the influence of Chinese culture in Canada and Confucian ethics. He published the book From Chopsticks to Hockey Sticks: The Achievements of Chinese Canadians. Since then he has begun research on the Chinese philosopher Wang Yangming (1472-1529) and how his thinking can be applied in environmental ethics.

You’re Invited to cSPACE’s Report to Community!
2023-06-27 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | cSPACE Marda Loop- Studio Theatre, 1721 29th Ave. SW, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
You’re invited to our highly anticipated Report to Community event hosted by cSPACE Projects!
Join us as we celebrate the incredible achievements and impact of our creative initiatives. Be the first to hear about our latest projects, collaborations, and the remarkable stories of artists, innovators, and community builders who have thrived within our spaces. Engage in dynamic discussions, connect with like-minded individuals, and witness the transformative power of art and culture. Together, let’s reflect on our collective journey and envision an even brighter future.
Mark your calendars for an evening of inspiration, connections, and shared successes at the cSPACE Projects Report to Community.
Featuring artist speakers, panel discussion, live performances and more!
Guests artists:

Wakefield Brewster, Poet Laureate
Priscilla Cherry, The Oratory
Bethel Afework, Alcove Arts Centre
Dwight Farahat, Tribe Artist Society
Memphis and the Grand
Chubby Cree

Admittance is free! Reserve your seat at the link below.

Stories of Exclusion: Elder in the Making
2023-06-28 13:00 - 16:00 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire, 381 2 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 5E9, Canada
In an effort to better understand Chinese and Indigenous relations, the STORIES OF EXCLUSION project members are watching ELDER IN THE MAKING. This 2015 documentary by Chris Hsiung is about two men – one Blackfoot and one Chinese Canadian – who embark on a spiritual journey of reconciliation. Upon request, we may also screen THE SHIFT, a documentary about Larry Kwong who was the first Chinese to play on the National Hockey League.

Liquor and Lace: A Variety Cabaret
2023-06-28 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | cSPACE Marda Loop- Studio Theatre, 1721 29th Ave. SW, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
An evening of music, dance, comedy, theatre and performance, that will make you laugh and smile.
Hosted by local improvisor and comedic superstar Logan Teske, and showcasing amazing local artists, Liquor and Lace starts the party at 7:00pm with a silent auction, bar and a wonderful outdoor patio. Performances start at 7:30pm, and feature many incredible artists including RPlanet Society, Ivy La Fleur, Baker Miller Pink and many more.

Gather Round Art Show Reception
2023-06-29 17:00 - 20:00 UTC | cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
Level 1 Gallery
Exhibition runs June 26th to July 24th, 2023
Reception on June 29th, 5pm-8pm
Experience an enchanting evening on June 29th, 2023, at cSPACE Marda Loop, as 11 Canadian artists come together to display breathtaking tondos, accompanied by food and drinks, and the chance to find your perfect piece of art for your home. Don’t miss this captivating art exhibition where creativity intertwines with culinary delights, and masterpieces await your discovery.
The artists are:
Ana Zanella
Mavis Gauchier
Heather Kinahan
Maya Corona
Theresa Eisenbarth
Leslie Starr
Deb Nicolaisen
Jo Reimer
Brandie Comier
Jen Vandenbroek
Becky McNabb

Songwriting Open House with Astral Swans
2023-06-30 00:00 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
Watch a diversity of songwriting collaborations unfold before your eyes and ears in real time! with Astral Swans!

Canada Day: Reflections from Stories of Exclusion
2023-07-01 13:30 - 16:00 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
On July 1, join us for a Lion Dance by the Jing Wo Cultural Association starting at 1:30 outside the cSpace Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub. Then, welcome the Stories of Exclusion artists for a discussion facilitated by Brian Wong from 2-4:30 inside the Hub.
The Stories of Exclusion project sheds light on how Chinese Calgarians and their families have been affected by the Chinese Immigration Act, which was passed 100 years ago on Dominion Day (now known as Canada Day). Also referred to as the Chinese Exclusion Act, this racist legislation essentially prohibited Chinese immigration to Canada. July 1 1923 was labelled Humiliation Day by the Chinese Canadian community.
Project leader Dale Lee Kwong and six other artists have spent a week witnessing interviews with community members about their Stories of Exclusion. On Canada Day, these artists will share their responses to these stories. This is an alternative celebration which acknowledges the intergenerational trauma caused by colonialism.
The Stories of Exclusion team includes:
Dale Lee Kwong (project lead + artist)
Cosmo Christoffersen (project manager)
Vic Ip (archivist + marketing coordinator)
Brian Wong (facilitator + translator)
Billy Kairan Guo (artist)
Kari Woo(artist)
Linda Kee (artist)
Michelle Kuku (artist)
Nick Wang (artist)
Yan Zhu (artist)
Stories of Exclusion is generously funded by the City of Calgary.

THE BREAK THRU
2023-07-01 17:00 - 23:30 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
Celebrate Canada Day in a unique way! Witness the electrifying showdown of Calgary’s finest bboys and bgirls as they battle it out for a $500 cash prize in an adrenaline-fueled breaking competition, showcasing unparalleled talent and jaw-dropping moves. Featuring sounds by DJ Playtime and judged by local favourites Rhythm Rhy and Igni.

The Break Thru
2023-07-01 17:00 - 23:30 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
1 vs 1 breaking competition showcasing calgary’s BBoy/BGirl talent.

Four Winds Indigenous Showcase and Market
2023-07-06 11:00 - 17:00, 2023-07-07 11:00 - 17:00, 2023-07-08 11:00 - 17:00 UTC | cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
Ready to experience an event around the Calgary Stampede that amplifies the true spirit of Indigenous culture?
Hello Summer 2023, presented by Four Winds Indigenous Showcase takes place at cSPACE Calgary from July 6th to July 8th and promises to be the perfect prelude to the Stampede, bringing together Indigenous-owned businesses, leaders, artists, fashion designers, and well-known musicians, for a celebration of arts and culture.

This growing cultural phenomenon is a three-day extravaganza featuring an impressive lineup of talent, including singer/songwriters Lena Daniels, Amanda Gendron & Curt Young, who will grace the stage with their captivating performances. Attendees can also look forward to a cutting-edge fashion show from innovative Indigenous designers. Traditional powwow will be a centrepiece of the weekend, and all are welcome to enjoy the vibrant energy of Indigenous culture.
One of the highlights of Hello Summer 2023 will be the performance by Alberta-based hip-hop musician and Four Winds co-founder, Tony Tootoosis, (Toosick). Tootoosis, a celebrated Grass Dance artist and performer, will treat the audience to his latest release: Letter to Elizabeth, a single and music video released in June 2023 and available on Apple Music and Spotify.

Tony Tootoosis Grass Dance on Sulpher Mountain Banff, June 2023 — Photo by Jennifer Peters @jkpeters_photography

“Being part of the new history of this historic building and venue is important not only to Four Winds and the Indigenous community but also to all Canadians,” says Tony Tootoosis, Four Winds Indigenous Showcase. “We are proud to help infuse new energy and meaning into historically colonized institutions in Alberta while embracing inclusivity and sharing the vibrant aspects of Indigenous arts and culture with everyone. cSPACE is a progressive and inclusive arts venue, and we are proud to be there.”

With his unique blend of modern hip-hop and Plains powwow tradition, Tootoosis has a way of captivating the crowd and welcoming them in to fully embrace tradition mixed with cutting-edge hip-hop and new media performance.
This weekend’s event will bring together over 40 performers and vendors at cSPACE, an innovative creative hub and event venue. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with diverse arts and culture programming, witness inspiring artist studios, and explore how creativity thrives in vibrant communities.

When and where:
The public is invited to join in the festivities at Hello Summer 2023 and enjoy the Indigenous Art Marketplace, live acoustic entertainment, the Indigenous Fashion Show, and the traditional Powwow. Marketplace operating hours from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day, there will be plenty of opportunities to explore and support Indigenous businesses and artists.

Highlights include:
Thursday July 6th, 2023

12:00 PM – Traditional Powwow Showcase
2:30 PM – Tony “Toosick” Hip Hop Musical Performance

Friday July 7th, 2023

12:00 PM – Amanda Gendron Acoustic Performance
1:00 PM – Lena Daniels Acoustic Performance
2:00 PM – Indigenous Fashion Show

Saturday July 8th, 2023

12:00 PM – Curt Young Flute & Hand Drum Performance
1:00 PM – Powwow Performance from Tootoosis Crew Youth Dancers
2:00 PM – Curt Young Acoustic Performance

For more information and updates, visit the Four Winds Indigenous Showcase https://www.fourwindsyyc.com/.

Media Contacts:
Melissa Tootoosis & Tony Tootoosis
Four Winds Indigenous Showcase Founders:
fourwindsyyc@gmail.com
+1 403.771.6294
Theresa Tayler
Start Me Up PR
theresatayler@startmeuppr.com
+1 403.818.9689

Songwriting Open House with Astral Swans
2023-07-06 16:00 - 23:00, 2023-07-07 16:00 - 23:00, 2023-07-08 16:00 - 23:00, 2023-07-13 16:00 - 23:00, 2023-07-14 16:00 - 23:00, 2023-07-19 16:00 - 23:00, 2023-07-20 16:00 - 23:00, 2023-07-21 16:00 - 23:00 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire, 381 2 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 5E9, Canada

Soul/Ful – A Collaborative Art Exhibition
2023-07-07 17:00 - 20:00 UTC | cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
Join us for the reception of Soul/Ful, a collaborative art exhibition between two cSPACE Events staffers – Kate Ware and Darren Flach.
Our forms of creativity could not be more different, yet both come from a soulful place.
Wine, cheese and other refreshments will be available. Both artists will speak about their work. We look forward to seeing you there!

CALL of the UKE
2023-07-08 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
Do you enjoy singing and playing in a group setting? If so, the CALL of the UKE Interest Group is for you!
You should have an understanding of the ukulele and basic chord formations. Group participants will introduce and lead a song of their choice each week . Facilitators will assist as required.
Saturdays, 10am – 12pm
Room #310
cSPACE Marda Loop
Register on the Calgary Association of Lifelong Learners website. Free for CALL members. Drop-ins are welcome for one session.

Escape from Stampede Super Secret Show
2023-07-08 19:30 - 22:30 UTC | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
An intimate concert hosted by Astral Swans featuring secret guests.

A SECRET STAMPEDE SHOW (INDIE FOLK EDITION)
2023-07-08 19:30 - 22:30 (America/Edmonton) | cSPACE Eau Claire Neighbourhood Hub, 381 2 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2P 0C5, Canada
cSPACE Eau Claire & Astral Swans Present: A very special, secret, Stampede Show. Shhhh!
Come celebrate (a less corporate approach to the Stampede)!
Saturday July 8th
Doors at 7pm
Featuring a very secret headliner in an intimate 40 person venue w/special guest opener Silverring.

Pancake Palooza!
2023-07-14 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7, Canada
🎨🎶 Arts & Culture Stampede Pancake Breakfast: Fuel Your Creativity!

Attention artists and cultural practitioners! Enjoy the only Stampede Breakfast in town made by artists, for artists. Join us for a morning filled with delicious food, engaging conversations, and a celebration of Calgary’s vibrant arts and culture community!
Mix with other artists and cultural sector entrepreneurs at this pancake breakfast at cSPACE Marda Loop sponsored by the inspiring creatives at Rozsa Foundation, Alliance Française, Casa Mexico, Aroma Café, and cSPACE Projects.
Get energized by the musical performance of harmony-driven, acoustic prog-rock inspired busking Bluegrass band, Rotary Park.
Mark your calendars and join us for this delightful morning of community, creativity, and collaboration with other artists and members of the cultural community.
📅 Date: Friday, July 14, 2023
⏰ Time: 9am-11am
📍 Location: cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721-29th Avenue SW
We can’t wait to welcome you to the cSPACE Marda Loop Pancake-Palooza! 🎉
