The “Heat Squares” initiative is a part of the “Memories of Extreme Heat” project. We have been exploring different ways to explore heat experience and memory through arts-based methods.
Inspired by other community projects that use arts-based methods around quilting, we asked community members to decorate 12” x 12” squares with paint, fabric, and thread, with each square intended to be a place for people to reflect on their sense of loss in relation to the heat dome, whether it be for a fellow loved one, neighbour, or animal/natural world. Some squares are dedicated to specific people or communities, while others explore different experiences and meanings of climate change. Community members were invited to share a title and a written description or dedication for their square.
The squares below were created at the “Remembering the Heat Dome” event on August 16th, 2026 at Creekside Community Centre.
The physical fabric squares may be combined into wall hangings to be displayed in community spaces in Vancouver.
I would like to create a square! Where do I begin?
If you are in Vancouver, we will be holding in-person events over the next year. We will provide fabric squares, paint, and markers to make squares at these events. You can find more information on our "Community Events" page, or email Rachel at heat.memories@ubc.ca to be informed of any upcoming in person events.
If you are unable to attend an upcoming community event in Vancouver, but you would like to contribute a square, please send an email to Rachel Stern at the project email: heat.memories@ubc.ca. We will follow up with you to discuss the best way for you to make and contribute a square.