Embassy of Canada Library

I’ve been in contact with some people from the Embassy of Canada regarding the Canadian Style event I’m producing at Cafe Pause, and yesterday I went to the embassy’s library to have a look at books and videos that I could possibly use. They had already agreed to send me various flyers, pamphlets, pins, and the like (sort of the equivalent of the books on Sweden we had during the Mamma Gun event), and what I was looking for at the library were books that I could possibly use as browsing material for all the shelf space we have at Cafe Pause, as well as some videos to project. I still haven’t had a chance to go through the video catalogue to make some selections (I really hope they have some compilations of animated shorts from the National Film Organization), but I did choose close to 30 books, most of them in Japanese, to display at the cafe. The thing with this event, versus the design-centric Mamma Gun, is that here the idea is to also promote Canada in general, so the selection covers different aspects of the country. Since I chose them based on imagery, there should be plenty to browse through while you’re enjoying a drink or meal.

Unlike Mamma Gun, with all the nice Swedish style/culture magazines we had to display, I wasn’t really expecting to use any Canadian magazines — basically because there aren’t that many style magazines that I’m aware of (but remember that I’ve been away for years). The only one I do follow is the design/architecture magazine AZURE, and I was surprised to see that they had it at the library, along with a few years worth of archives. I asked if I could borrow some issues for use at the cafe, and the person in charge said that it wouldn’t be a problem because AZURE was actually the least popular magazine they carry! Huh?!? Well, that’s good news for me, and for you, since every issue of 2005 will be at the cafe during the event for your perusal.

As for other updates, the DM (postcard/flyer) should be sent to the printer by the end of the week. I’ll give you a preview when the final version is done. Other things are coming along nicely, like musical compilations from mostly independent Canadian artists that will have different themes: roots, indie pop, singer/songwriter, French, etc. They’re being compiled by Marc Xavier LeBlanc, a DJ/photographer who will also have some Lomography on display. I also really dig the concept he came up with for the compilation covers. More on that later.

It’s been a busy past few days, and I figure it’s not going to let up anytime soon, but I’ll update you with more within the next few days (with images as well). And remember to make a place in your calendar for our opening party February 4 (Saturday, starting at 19:00). The drink menu hasn’t been set, but I imagine we’ll have a few drink specials (meaning cheap). Come one, come all!