Presented by Chelsea Watt in partnership with Massey Theatre Society

Collected Memory is a unique community event that explores the relationship we have with the collected objects of our loved ones and ourselves. It invites conversations around what we collect today, in comparison to what our elders collected. How do we carry on the memories of our loved ones when the items that make us think of them are no longer there? What does it mean to move these items on after the loved one has died? How do we let go? And what will each of us leave behind that will spark memories of our own passions to those who we leave behind?

Collectors, curators, family historians and more are invited to come exhibit their family heirlooms and share the memories and stories of their loved ones and their collection with the community. A chance to start conversations around love, memory, grief and the journey taken.

Collected Memory was conceived by New Westminster resident Chelsea Watt and is being presented in partnership with the Massey Theatre Society at Eighth & Eight Creative Spaces. Watt is currently the caretaker of the more than 1,200 piece collection of salt and pepper shakers of her grandmother. Her connection with this collection and her role as steward has given her the opportunity to reflect on relationships, objects and how they tell the stories of their owners and the people who love them.

The event itself will take place over three days. Exhibitors will display their collections as well as the stories that share the history of the objects, their original collectors and the family that is carrying the memories along. It is also a unique opportunity for groups to gather around the items that remind them of their loved ones. Collections can be sold or donated at the end of the event.

EVENT SCHEDULE

November 28
5pm to 7pm – set up and Family and Friends documentation
7pm to 9pm – Community Gathering, Open Mic and exhibition opening

The Community Gathering is an evening of short presentations as contributors share stories of their loved ones and the collections. Collections are on display and exhibitors can share their collection with visitors, telling stories and guiding visitors through their collection.

November 29
12pm to 4pm – Exhibition viewing hours

Collections are on display starting at noon and exhibitors can share their collection with visitors, telling stories and guiding visitors through their collection. Exhibitors can take pre-orders and sales for their collections, but collections must stay on display.

November 30
12 pm to 4pm – Collection sale

There is no cost to exhibitors to this event. Admission to the general public is by donation.

The call for exhibitors is now open. If you’re holding on to a loved one’s spoon collection, your dad’s model trains, or your aunt’s beloved vintage teacups consider displaying them and sharing the stories and memories.

You will be asked to be present with your collection each day to share memories and stories with visitors.