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Artengine has always been dedicated to bringing together artists, designers, technologists, and researchers to explore emerging technologies through collaborative learning and production. Maker Faire Ottawa was a prime example of this mission in action, bringing together diverse creators to share knowledge and inspire the next generation of innovators.
The seeds of Maker Faire Ottawa were sown in the fertile ground of Electric Fields, a biennial festival dedicated to the presentation of new and significant performance and installation works created at the crossroads of art, science, and technology. Electric Fields, which began in 2003, served as a catalyst for creative exploration and collaboration, paving the way for Maker Faire Ottawa’s emergence as a hub for innovation and community building.
Artengine’s Maker Fair legacy lives on through the countless makers, artists, and innovators it inspired. Artengine remains committed to fostering a culture of creativity, exploration, and collaboration through our ongoing projects and initiatives.
THE EVOLUTION OF OTTAWAS MAKER FAIRE
Maker Faire Ottawa quickly evolved into more than just an event—it became a vibrant hub for the city’s creative community. The Faire’s unique blend of art, science, technology, and DIY culture fostered an environment where makers from all walks of life could connect, collaborate, and share their passion for making.
The Faire was a place where families could discover the joy of hands-on learning, students could showcase their ingenuity, and entrepreneurs could test their prototypes in a supportive environment. It brought together diverse communities, from artists and engineers to educators and hobbyists, creating a space where cross-disciplinary connections could flourish.
Over the years, Maker Faire Ottawa became a beloved annual tradition, attracting thousands of attendees and showcasing the incredible talent and creativity that thrives in the region. It not only inspired countless individuals to embrace their own maker journeys but also strengthened the fabric of the Ottawa community by fostering a spirit of collaboration, innovation, and shared learning.
Though Maker Faire Ottawa is no longer an active event, its legacy continues to reverberate through the Ottawa maker community. Many of the makers and artists who participated in the Faire have gone on to launch successful businesses, pursue careers in STEM fields, or become active contributors to the local maker ecosystem. The connections forged and the inspiration sparked at Maker Faire Ottawa continue to fuel creativity and innovation in the city and beyond.
Kentucky Perfect incorporates an intentionally overstated measure of technology to explore the very role that technology plays in the culture in which we live. More specifically, the work – in its fantastical amplification of the technology’s use in the everyday
The Woman’s Tears Machine Gun is a gun to end all wars. With bullets filled with woman’s tears, it completely deflates the desire for violence and is the first gun created for peace. Debuted at the Ottawa Maker Faire.
Maker Faire Ottawa, under Artengine's curation, blurred the lines between traditional art spaces and the maker movement. By showcasing artworks that seamlessly integrated technology, the event challenged conventional notions of what constitutes "art." Artists whose work typically resided in galleries found themselves in a new context, surrounded by tinkerers, engineers, and DIY enthusiasts. This unexpected juxtaposition led to a fascinating shift in audience perception, as viewers encountered art through a maker lens. The technical ingenuity and interactive elements of these artworks sparked curiosity and engagement, inviting viewers to explore the creative possibilities at the intersection of art and technology. This unique blend of artistic expression and technological exploration redefined how audiences experienced and interacted with art, demonstrating the power of Maker Faire Ottawa to broaden perspectives and ignite new conversations.
Drinkbot Dress by Anouk Wipprecht allows its wearer to decide who to serve a shot to (and who to leave dry). A playful take on the cocktail dress, Drinkbot is made of leather and electronic components housed inside a 3D printed dress through a process called sintering.
Orchestrer la perte / Perpetual Demotion is an interactive installation comprising a feeding robot, human eaters, bacterially activated foods, a refrigerator, and a human slave.
The Jormungand (Midgard) and Julunggul (Rainbow) serpents sit between 2 worlds; the old world that needed and revered them and the present which has shunned such monsters as fears metamorphosed into mythical form.
This idea uses the base of a slot car track and car to create noise. Each car has an associated noise and when moving about the track makes the noise. Depending on the speed the noise can change.
Maker Faire Ottawa, fueled by Artengine's passion for technological exploration, transformed the perception of science and tech from abstract concepts to tangible experiences. The event shattered stereotypes by showcasing a wide array of projects that were both cutting-edge and approachable. Attendees could witness the latest advancements in robotics, 3D printing, and interactive technologies, not just as static displays, but as hands-on opportunities for learning and engagement. This accessible approach demystified complex concepts, empowering individuals from all backgrounds to embrace their inner innovator. By fostering a spirit of curiosity and experimentation, Maker Faire Ottawa sparked new passions for science and technology, demonstrating that innovation isn't confined to laboratories – it's a dynamic force that thrives in the hands of everyday makers.
Lamp Sculpture made from recycled scrap metal pieces.
Working stringed instruments made from recycled items including boxes, books and liscence plates.
This unique environment fostered a sense of community and camaraderie, breaking down barriers between amateur and professional makers. It was a place where seasoned woodworkers could exchange tips with budding electronics enthusiasts, and where textile artists could collaborate with 3D printing experts. The Faire’s emphasis on hands-on learning and skill-sharing created a fertile ground for collaboration and innovation.
Maker Faire Ottawa empowered small creators, giving them a stage to demonstrate their unique talents and connect with a wider audience. This not only boosted their confidence and visibility but also enriched the overall maker ecosystem by showcasing the diversity and depth of craftsmanship within the community.