Making Space
Artist-in-Residence Program
Ellie Saunders
Ellie Saunders is a photographer, multimedia artist and educator. They have been working on a black and white film and digital photography project called Candidly Queer for the last few years both in southern Alberta and in Yellowknife. They enjoy capturing queer people taking up space in different environments. Ellie also loves sculpture and print making, specifically block printing. Ellie gathers their inspiration from their identity and values of inclusion, diversity and human rights. They believe strongly in the importance of creating and maintaining safe environments for all folks.
Makers can join Ellie at Makerspace YK in July for two workshops exploring the print medium. The first workshop focuses on introductory skills printing on paper and fabric, while the second dives into assemblage and print in combination.
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Block Print Upcycling Workshop, July 16
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Form and Shape Printmaking Workshop, July 29
Angelina Phage
Angelina Phage is a community-based practitioner, advocate, and multidisciplinary artist whose work centers healing, justice, and cultural reclamation. Drawing from her background in clinical mental health, community outreach, and Indigenous and Black community support, Ang’s art weaves storytelling, lived experience, and collective care into visual and community-engaged practices. She finds deep personal healing in the fine line art she creates delicate, intentional lines that gradually come together to form powerful and beautiful images. Through her work, Ang explores how art can hold grief, spark dialogue, and imagine more just and compassionate futures while honoring the resilience of communities often pushed to the margins.
Makers could join at Makerspace YK in June for “The Art of Fine Line Healing.” Across two workshops, participants explored drawing as a tool for peace and meditation. The first workshop focused on using simple drawing techniques for emotional regulation and self-reflection, while the second dove into exploring memories or emotions through symbolic imagery and pattern-based drawing.
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Fine Line Healing Workshop, June 10
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Visual Storytelling Workshop, June 16
Steph Woodworth
Steph Woodworth (Layers of Paper) is a trans non-binary collage artist who works primarily with paper and found materials. Their practice celebrates reuse, softness, and creative problem-solving, transforming everyday “trash” into colourful, intentional compositions. Steph’s work blurs the line between art and daily life, inviting curiosity, care, and play. They are passionate about sharing accessible art practices that remind people creativity does not need to be expensive to be meaningful.
Makers could join Steph at Makerspace YK in April 2026 for “The Art of Assembling with Layers of Paper.” Across two workshops, participants explored collage as both a tool for organizing everyday life and imagining new worlds. The first workshop focused on using collage for reflection and creative journaling, while the second dove into surreal collage techniques and collaborative art-making.
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The Art of Everyday Life, April 15
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Imagining New Worlds, April 24