Through our latest Collaboration Studio project, explore the transformative power of shared space as a gallery, an artist incubator, and a platform where diverse voices converge.
Dive into Cumberland’s storied past and vibrant present through the voices of twelve authors in A Place Called Cumberland, a newly published collection that delves into everything from legendary railway disasters and coal mining struggles to tales of mountain biking and mycology. The accompanying exhibition, A Place Called Cumberland: A Publication Exhibition, amplifies these stories with interactive displays and multimedia installations that immerse you in the layers of Cumberland’s history.
Together, the book and exhibition capture lesser-known narratives—from the untold stories of Chinese and Italian immigrant miners to the enduring impact of Japanese-Canadian families like the Ogakis. Learn about figures like Joe Naylor, the quiet yet powerful influence behind labour leader Ginger Goodwin, and meet the bold pioneers like Dr. Irene Mounce, who contributed to the fields of science and hospitality in this resilient community.
This project celebrates Cumberland’s role as an arts, culture, and recreation hub in Vancouver Island’s Comox Valley, making visible the intertwined histories and diverse values that make it a truly unique place. Join us in the Collaboration Studio to connect with these compelling stories, add your own voice to the space, and experience Cumberland from a new perspective.
STUDIO PROJECT SUPPORT
Thank you to the Y.P. Heung Foundation for their generous support, which made this project possible and allowed it to grow into a meaningful, community-created anthology.
