Morrow
On the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations
Morrow is a cultural hub that supports and is in conversation with the work of many artists from across genres.
Morrow’s Story:
“We opened Morrow in July 2020 as a 3-month pop-up to pivot an ensemble production that was at risk of cancellation due to theatre closures. As our first project in this tiny storefront venue, we collaborated with 6 artists to present 54 live micro-performances for audiences of three to five people at a time. Later, we hosted paid residences and began partnering and sponsoring events.
Simultaneously and because this inaugural locale was licensed for retail, we transformed its miniscule loft into a gallery where artists displayed and sold material creations. It was a way to support colleagues at a time when most artists (myself included) were on CERB and unable to generate income. The community rallied and within very few months, we sold over 12k in gallery items with 80% – 100% proceeds going to artists. We stayed in this quaint shoebox venue until Dec 2021, by which time, we had programmed 14 paid residences, produced more shows, and clearly, needed legitimate cultural space.
This is how we arrived at Morrow’s present address, a 1270 square foot flex space with studio, gallery and relax/work areas across the street from a playground and at the intersection of 2 bike lanes. With support from the city and the province we’ve equipped the space with theatrical lighting, surround masking, sound system and upgrades that augment a modest venue. We even have a space operations manager, dance artist Allie Lang!
I never planned to steward a cultural space; impulse, instinct and reinvention are why Morrow exists. We went from a three month pop up to what is now our 4th year. We’re committed but in truth, I don’t know how long we can sustain space operations. So I count every day as lucky and am honoured that artists bring their practice to Morrow. Because of Morrow, Odd Meridian’s programming has intentional community engagement. Because of Morrow, I have learned what it means to give wholeheartedly to the artistic community: friends and strangers alike. It’s meaningful labour for which I am so grateful.
Upon entering for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd time, many people exclaim that Morrow is stunning. Upon the completion of a work stint, artists often say that Morrow is a sanctuary. In part it’s the northern light and tree lined windows but I know that in fact, Morrow is beautiful because 1000’s of people who grace the space, imprint every particle of Morrow’s environs with their creative and heart energies.
It’s an immense privilege to have figurative and physical space in which to practice art. So we want to share Morrow as best we can with artists and communities. Please bring your body, your work, your dreams. In different times and other than usual spaces, creativity inspires.”
Welcome to Morrow!
Ziyian Kwan
Artistic Director, Dumb Instrument Dance