Hide Tanning Workshop at Kamloops, BC. Spring 2024
Kim was invited to teach members of the Two Rivers Métis Society about hide tanning. In this multiple-day workshop, Kim was able to demonstrate all steps, from working with a green hide to creating a golden smoked leather as a finished product. The workshop took place on a private residence with access to a large heated indoor workshop.
10 Day Hide Camp at Prince George, BC. Spring 2019
Métis artist, Lynette LaFontaine organized an all-immersive 10 day hide tanning camp with Kim as mentor. Participants camped and worked along the banks of the Salmon River during exceptionally hot days right through to pouring rain to complete multiple deer hides. Local Elders and community supported the participants by providing food and tools and witnessing the transfer of knowledge to many learners of all ages. Watch a video highlight reel created by student, Grace Burke here.
Urban Hide Tanning at Emily Carr University. Fall, 2018
Kim was invited to be an ‘Artist in Residence’ at Emily Carr University in the Aboriginal Gathering Place for 5 days. The balcony made an excellent location to work on hides in various stages of the process. Students were welcome to drop in and work alongside Kim throughout the week.
Métis Garment Project, 1999-2001
Kim was awarded a Canada Council of the Arts grant to research and learn aspects of Métis garment making. Kim partnered with research mentor, Dr. Heather Young Leslie, and hide tanners and Carrier Elders, Lucy and Shirley Bock for this 3 year project where she and a group of dedicated people learned hide tanning, pattern making and beadwork applique. This is a link to Kim’s blog post about this event where you can read about the process.