This clay tile workshop explores the powerful connections between heritage, identity and surface design. Drawing inspiration from Malene’s book, Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practice of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers, you will discover how to create meaningful patterns rooted in your ancestry and cultural history.

During this hands-on session, you will decorate tiles that tell your personal story. We’ll explore techniques for translating family stories and cultural memories into surface patterns, then apply these designs directly onto tiles using surface decoration techniques. In the process, you will uncover personal symbols, stories and motifs from your heritage, transforming them into contemporary tile designs that honour your roots while expressing your unique creative voice.

Leave with decorated tiles ready for firing and practical methods for continuing this heritage-inspired design practice in your own work. Perfect for makers wanting to infuse their projects with deeper cultural meaning and personal significance. No prior experience necessary – just bring curiosity about your own story and heritage.

Offered in partnership with the City of Toronto and Toronto History Museums.