Carnival: The Exhibition
Enercare Centre Swing Space
August 16 - September 2, 2024
This exhibition celebrates the 100th anniversary of Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions. Using artefacts from carnival purveyors Conklin Shows and associated companies, the histories behind building fun, frolic, and entertainment will be explored. Also chronicled will be the personal side of establishing fairs and carnivals, through archives and accounts from current associates, as well as detailing Carnival King Paddy Conklin’s inextricable link to carnivals across Canada.
As assistant curator under Virginia Eichhorn, I completed condition reports, and cleaned and repaired the artefacts for display. Also, I researched and wrote didactics about various carnival rides and the history of Conklin Shows. Audio interviews were conducted with associates of the CNE and Norfolk County Fair for first-hand experiences, which were included in a slideshow of photographs and archival footage I assembled, that was shown within the exhibition.