Join us for an artist-led silk painting workshop this MOCA Community Weekend!
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be introduced to the materials and processes of Vietnamese silk painting, a tradition where the movement of pigment across fabric reflects patience, balance, and sensitivity to the natural flow of water. Guided by artist and educator Phan Trúc (Alek), you’ll explore how pigment, water, and silk interact to create soft layers of color and light.
Inspired by the traditional textiles and the meditative, quiet power of making explored in Kimsooja’s exhibition Dimensions of a Needle, the workshop explores the ways textiles can hold cultural histories, stories, and memories.
No prior experience is required, though an artistic background or previous experience can be helpful. Make a day of it and start with Alek Phan’s presentation: Cross Cultural Practice in Contemporary Art.
Registration is required for this programme.
*Enthusiast, Catalyst, and Sustaining Members: redeem your complimentary ticket for this event or enjoy 10% off. To join or upgrade your membership, email membership@moca.ca.
About the Artist
Alek Phan is a visual artist and community-based art educator whose socially engaged practice bridges Southeast Asian heritage with contemporary Canadian contexts. Their work explores the intersections of cultural heritage, technology, and the natural world, using cultural totems and symbols as metaphors for time, transformation, and collective memory.
Since arriving in Canada, Phan has developed participatory art projects that transform public spaces, such as projection mapping at Mississauga Central Library, and installations with Arts Etobicoke, Evergreen Brick Works, and Toronto City Hall in 2025. Their practice extends to community storytelling initiatives and digital projects, including workshops at Scadding Court Community Centre and Finn Finds a Way (2024), at Centennial College, an interactive work supporting trans youth.
Phan holds a BA in Cultures and Literature (Vietnam), a Certificate in Cultural Studies (Taiwan), and Postgraduate Certificates in Arts Education and Community Engagement, and Digital Performance (Canada). Their work has been exhibited in Vietnam and Canada.
This work was made possible by ArtWorksTO (Newcomer Program), in partnership with Toronto Arts Foundation. ArtWorksTO is a workforce development initiative that provides participants with credentialed education, industry mentorship, and paid work placements to develop practical skills and build professional networks in the media arts industry.
June Community Weekend Schedule
Friday, June 5
5–9 pm: Free Friday Night
Saturday, June 6
11 am: Presentation by Alek Phan
12 pm and 2 pm: Drop-in Tour
1–4 pm: Silk Painting Workshop with Alek Phan*
*There is a $50 fee per person. General Admission to the museum is included. MOCA Members at the Enthusiast level and above are eligible for workshop discounts.
Sunday, June 7
TD Community Sunday:
10 am–5 pm: Free Museum Admission
10 am–3 pm: Drop-in all-ages Workshop
