Tony's work was also recognized in the House of Commons by Prescott—Russell—Cumberland MP Giovanna Mingarelli earlier this month for publishing 20 short stories about dignity and kindness for Global Dignity Day 2025. Photo: Jamie Bell
Northwestern Ontario storytelling and publishing project to expand across regions
This month marks the wrap-up of Art Borups Corners’ storytelling, oral history, and publishing project — a creative initiative that brought together artists and community members across Northwestern Ontario to explore the power of shared stories. It’s a program we were proud to be able to support as they build capacity and skills.
Through hands-on workshops and collaborative sessions, artists and creators learned how to shape lived experience into narrative, blending traditional oral history with contemporary storytelling and publishing practices. More than 40 short stories were produced and published during the groups’ weekend sessions. The program was funded by the Ontario Arts Council Multi and Inter-Arts Projects program.
Over the course of the program, stories emerged that reflect the voices, landscapes, and relationships that define life in the region. Participants gained new tools to record, preserve, and publish community narratives, ensuring that local knowledge and creativity continue to thrive. As the project concludes, it leaves behind a growing network of storytellers inspired to carry these practices forward in their own communities.
And their work did not go unnoticed! The project was recognized in the House of Commons by Prescott—Russell—Cumberland MP Giovanna Mingarelli earlier this month for publishing 20 short stories about dignity and kindness for Global Dignity Day 2025.
The storytelling component will continue as a regional initiative with team members from Northwestern Ontario, Manitoba, Minnesota and Nunavut.
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