Figure 一, 二, 三, 六, 八 is a heritage art project honouring the history and cultural impacts of Edmonton’s ever-changing Chinatown. Recognized for over 100 years, Chinatown has relocated, transformed, and adapted itself through urban economic pressures. However, many residents know little about its histories. As the Chinese community today struggles to maintain their legacy in the area, redevelopment plans continue to alter and challenge the space. The removal and undecided home of Edmonton’s Harbin Gate is a recent example of how infrastructure plans can have a debilitating effect on communities.

In late 2017, the Living Local Grant supported a team of local heritage experts, community advocates, artists, and community organization (ASSIST Community Services Centre) to form. Since then, this group has been creating five “figures” of artwork centered around Chinatown history and life. This work is influenced by social practice artists like Theaster Gates (Rebuild Foundation, Chicago) and Rick Lowe (Project Row Houses, Houston) who have revitalized neighbourhood ghettos into open community spaces. The project’s methodology emphasizes active engagement, participation, and collaboration with the community.

Core Team Cui Jinzhe, Lan Chan-Marples, Chris Chang-Yen Phillips, and Shawn Tse

Grants Edmonton Heritage Council Living Local Grant, Access Copyright Foundation Marian Hebb Research Grant.

Community Partners ASSIST Community Services Centre (Lead), Chinese Benevolent Association, City of Edmonton, CJSR Radio, Dr. Steven Aung, Edmonton Chinatown Chinese Library, Edmonton Chinese Young Leaders Council, Fallout Media, U of A Community Service Learning.

Resources Provincial Archives of Alberta, Bruce Peel Special Collections Library, City of Edmonton Archives.