Markham Community Makers
Markham Community Makers is back!
Makers are the new generation of do-it-yourself culture. Our grandparents and parents worked with manual tools to complete home repairs, paint, fashion clothing, cook, preserve, and garden and we continue in this tradition.
Maker Culture, a term first used almost 20 years ago, recognizes the interdisciplinary nature of the creative process. Makers typically support open-source design, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Earlier generations of Makers relied on reference books, manuals, and magazines (such as Popular Mechanics) and perhaps their neighbours for knowledge, skill,s and inspiration. The newest generations integrate creative skills with technology in new and multidisciplinary ways. They also work with global networks to research, find inspiration, and join supportive communities.
Our Community Makers
As part of Alpha Education’s “Shadows of Racism: Voices Unheard” project, Métis artist Tracey-Mae Chambers collaborated with Grade 12 Visual Arts students at Unionville High School to explore history, identity, and representation. Themes of discrimination and social isolation are central to the project.
The Chamber of Red Thread is an immersive installation inspired by Tracey-Mae’s artistic process. Crafted with red acrylic yarn—chosen for its durability and symbolism of blood, anger, love, and courage—the structure weaves a powerful narrative of resilience and human connection. Integrating traditional tapestry-making with modern technology, the Chamber invites visitors to pause and reflect. Reiki energy and crystals like rose quartz and amethyst enhance its meditative atmosphere, while ambient sound elements deepen the sensory experience and connection to its themes.
The Chamber of Red Thread has been on display at the WongAvery Asia Pacific Peace Museum and the Aga Khan Museum.
Coming from a family of creators, Lorne began drawing the animals and surroundings he saw on his father's farm in Markham at a young age. As he became older, his interest in making artwork grew and he attended an art school to further develop his skills. Lorne is known for the various handcrafted projects he created throughout his life.
Given the variety of handmade pieces Lorne worked on, the development behind each creation differs. He is not the type of creator who constantly aims for perfection. Instead, he tweaks and adjusts his work based on its current state. Lorne's resourceful personality is reflected throughout his art and his knack for repairing objects has made him an invaluable community member wherever he goes.
Originally from Germany, Ruth emigrated to Canada in 1949 at the age of 23. With her husband, the couple purchased a plot of farmland in Unionville in 1954. They constructed their own bungalow and resided in the area for roughly 70 years.
By the 1970s and 1980s, Ruth noticed that Markham was undergoing significant changes. To document her hometown before it became unrecognizable, she began creating three-dimensional fabric collages based on areas and landmarks around Markham. Over the years, Ruth has won numerous awards for the pieces she created.
KEVA is a simple building system that uses one brick to inspire the creative spirit in people of all ages and abilities. Precision milling of the hardwood bricks ensures they can be used for precise construction.
Join the other makers in this space and become part of our local community. Try one of our building challenges or create something new and unique with these bricks.