Develop your storytelling skills with professional artist, Naomi Steinberg, while exploring the excavation process of real-estate development projects. Where does the removed topsoil go? What journeys do earth and stone have to take? What happens to the boulders found in the glacial till?

This walking workshop will begin with Indigenous knowledge-keeper, John Preissl, who will share stories about special rocks found in Burnaby. Then listen to presentations about historic stone-masonry in Burnaby and the deposition of soil from development sites, and get inspired to discuss your relationship to place and belonging.

Time together will include contemplative, movement-based and landscape-based approaches, as we practice using the tools of a storyteller: imagination, breath, and body. The workshop concludes with the co-creation of a story based on our shared explorations!

Meet at Thomas Cannell’s stone sculptures! See map below for full tour route.

Presenter Bio:

Artist and storyteller Naomi Steinberg has over 20 years’ experience performing traditional folk and fairy tales with diverse communities in contexts such as schools, theatres, forests, festivals and conferences. As an educator, Naomi believes that to explore a story deeply is to embark on a journey of discovery and play. She uses movement, clown, contemplation, and vocal dynamics to enhance storytelling performance and workshops, all while encouraging awareness of the planet, intercultural sensitivity, and the inclusion of diverse learning styles.

Learn more about Naomi on her website: Goosefeather