NEA Big Read | Moving Poem: Miniature Matchbook Crankie Workshop

In Ilya Kaminsky’s Deaf Republic, puppets serve as a form of resistance. As we explore our connections to community and collective action, we invite you to join us for an all-ages workshop that delves into a unique form of puppetry: the crankie.

A crankie is a moving panorama or story—an illustrated scroll that is often illuminated from behind.

During this workshop we’ll have a chance to build a miniature version using a matchbox. The idea is to explore narratives through imagery, words, or both. Come create your own crankie and discover how this ancient art form works on the miniature scale!

All materials are provided. Designed to have a low floor and high ceiling, this workshop is open to all ages and abilities.

This event is part of the BIG READ series, presented by SPACE Gallery and Mechanics’ Hall.

NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment of the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.