This piece was inspired by the stitch work seen in the woven baskets at Alberta Craft Gallery. I was struck by its intricacy, precision, and rhythm.
Utility Box
Marda Loop is home to several boutique and consignment clothing stores. I was inspired by the thoughtful displays and the emphasis on sustainable fashion. In this piece, I aimed to capture various garments arranged on racks and shelves, highlighting how beauty and creativity can be found in everyday objects.
Utility Box
This piece highlights Marda Loop as the home of Little Bow Fibre Company, a local and sustainable yarn store. The two yarn balls are joined by a single strand, symbolizing the threads of connection and community woven through this neighbourhood.
Utility Box
During our site visit to the Chinook Guild of Fibre Arts, I was introduced to the intricate art of rug hooking. I was especially drawn to the distinctive rectangular patterning it creates, and this piece is my attempt to reflect and reimagine that unique texture.
Utility Box
As a devoted dog lover, I was struck by how dog-friendly Marda Loop is — with its central pet store, patios, and shops catering to four-legged friends. In this piece, I sought to capture the textures and fibres of dog fashion and functional items, celebrating the playful and practical elements that make this community so welcoming to pets.
Utility Box
This piece was inspired by the lines and textures found in embroidery. I was particularly moved by the embroidered works I encountered at the Alberta Craft Gallery, which featured nature scenes, as well as a piece depicting human figures that was later shared with me by a member of the Chinook Guild of Fibre Arts who was unable to attend our site visit.
Utility Box
This piece was inspired by the cross-stitch patterns I encountered at the Chinook Guild of Fibre Arts. Having spent time cross-stitching as a young teen, the process felt deeply reminiscent of those earlier years I devoted to stitching.
Utility Box
In connecting with the community, I learned about the long-standing presence of Pinky’s Coin Laundry in Marda Loop. Though it is no longer in operation, this piece pays tribute to its history and significance by transforming the utility box into the image of a washing machine — a visual reminder of the everyday places that once brought people together.
Utility Box
This piece is inspired by traditional Metis floral beadwork. The Metis people emerged through the meeting of cultures — Indigenous and settler European. The seven central flowers symbolize the Seven Generations teaching, reminding us that the choices we make today will carry forward to nurture and sustain those who come seven generations after us.
Utility Box
The ceinture fléchée is a powerful cultural symbol of the Metis. Traditionally finger-woven, its arrow-patterned sashes blend both French and Indigenous techniques. This piece represents the ceinture fléchée wrapping around and embracing the community, expressing the idea that all peoples and cultures have a place of belonging in this space.
Utility Box
Housed in C-Space, Riyoko is a fashion design studio that also offers sewing and pattern-making classes. During our visit to Kristi Woo’s inspiring studio, I was captivated by the intricate patterns and elegant mannequins, which sparked my own creative ideas.
Utility Box
While walking through Marda Loop, I came across a beautiful patchwork sign hanging outside a Building. Instead of using standard, durable materials, the makers chose to carefully stitch the words together, transforming the sign into a gesture of care and creativity. The patchwork not only conveyed the message but also reflected the thoughtfulness and intention behind it. I hope to translate this into the patchwork piece I created.
Utility Box
This piece celebrates the vibrant festivals and events that bring Marda Loop to life. Gatherings like Marda Gras and the farmers’ market unite the community in lively, creative, and joyful ways, reflecting the spirit and energy of the neighbourhood.
Utility Box
Last updated: June 15th, 2026