Winter Solstice Series: Weaving Dreamcatchers

Discover the Indigenous art of dreamcatcher weaving, crafted to bring you positive dreams.

Hang a dreamcatcher above your sleeping space to keep bad dreams at bay while letting the good ones flow through, guided by feathers. The unwanted dreams are ensnared in the web, vanishing with the first light of day.

At our creative workshop led by Algonquin Métis visual artist, educator, and Knowledge Keeper, Diane Montreuil, you'll craft your dreamcatcher with enduring materials like soft hide, sinew, and wooden rings. Beads and feathers are carefully added to beckon good dreams your way.

During this 2-hour workshop, Diane will share teachings and Indigenous Ways of Knowing surrounding the winter season and the solstice. All materials will be provided.

This event is part of TRCA's Winter Solstice Series. Learn more about this event series and the significance of the winter solstice at our website.

This event is intended for a General Audience:

• Beginner level information
• Includes intermediate concepts
• Content intended for older youth and adults

Date and Time: Saturday, December 20 at 3:00pm to 5:00pm

Location: Tommy Thompson Park, 1 Leslie St. Meet your event leader at the Nature Centre, which is located approximately ~7-minute walk from the main entrance of the park.

Ticket Price: Tickets for this event are $30.00 + HST (plus Eventbrite fees).

*If costs presents a financial barrier to your purchase, please contact Tisha at [email protected].

*Conservation Pass members are eligible for a discounted rate using promo code "TRCACP". Members may be requested to show proof of their membership upon arrival at the event.

Parking/Transit Info: Free, public parking is available at the main entrance of the park, directly adjacent to the park pavilion. The entrance to the lot is on Unwin Ave, just west of Leslie St. If taking transit, take the 83 Jones bus to Commissioners St. The Nature Centre is ~15 minute walk from the bus stop.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests received by TRCA more than 14 days before the start of the program will receive a 75% refund of the relevant program fees paid. Cancellation requests received by TRCA less than 14 days before the start of the program do not qualify for a refund. Minimum registration numbers are required for the program to operate. In the event TRCA must cancel the program due to low registration or government order, a full refund will be issued. Please direct any questions regarding the cancellation policy for this event to [email protected].

Waitlist Info: If the event is sold out, please contact [email protected] to be added to the waitlist.

• The workshop will take place indoors, but please dress appropriately for the weather, as parts of the workshop will take place outside. Don't forget to bring a toque, scarf, and gloves!
• Flush washrooms are located at the main entrance of the park, so please plan accordingly.
• Bring a personal water bottle and snacks, if needed. Coffee and hot chocolate will be available, so please bring a thermos or mug!

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is committed to creating an accessible experience for all participants. If you require an accessibility accommodation, please email [email protected] at least 7 days prior to the event.

Diane Montreuil is an Algonquin Métis visual artist, educator, and curator.

In 2019, Diane was appointed by the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) as their Knowledge Keeper and Elder in Residence. She is part of the Indigenous Advisory Board, where she has been collaborating with different schools since 2018, speaking on Indigenous Culture and hosting art classes. Diane also collaborated with other schools and school boards, including Waldorf Academy of Toronto, Toronto District School Board (TDSB), Viamonde School Board, York University, and Niagara University.

Since 2017, Diane’s artwork has been selected and presented in different exhibitions in Toronto. Her paintings are shown in various galleries in Ontario and her work has been circulated throughout Canada, USA, and Europe.

For over 30 years, Diane has been apprenticing the traditional ways for her own healing with Cherokee Grandmother/Elder and Elders of First Nations in Ontario. It is very important for her to learn back language and tradition. Diane uses art as a tool of communication as she brings the knowledge of her Grandmother/Elder's teachings to life.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)