Creation of Edmonton Living Rooms

Originating in 2016, Edmonton Living Rooms is a result of fascinating partnerships between organizations and communities, including the Edmonton Heritage Council, the Multicultural Health Brokers Co-operative (MCHB), and seven distinct refugee communities.

Throughout its inception, it was intended to reveal and celebrate the cultural capital that a multitude of populations have brought through their active presence on amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton). It was an effort to transform what was intangible and invisible, into a vibrant visible exposure of exceptional peoples that are a part of this land’s ever evolving complex historical identity. It was an attempt at crossing divides through meaningful human connection via dialogue, storytelling and deep “heartwork.” From 2017 to 2019, Edmonton Living Rooms experienced two iterations of a traveling exhibit, accompanied with community programming.

Since the emergence of COVID-19, we have seen digital spaces take on the role of providing human connection and relationship building. With this ‘new normal,’ the Edmonton City As Museum Project (ECAMP) has crafted a third iteration of Edmonton Living Rooms in this virtual exhibit co-created with its original partners, including the EHC, MCHB, and seven refugee communities. In this new digital iteration three new themes were also introduced, including Food, Love & Resilience – chosen by community members as relevant for today.

2017-2019 Community Gatherings

ELR #1 Exhibit

ELR #2 Exhibit

2023 Community Gatherings