Specializing in exhibit and installation design, Studio Marina Hulzenga translates narrative and knowledge into a variety of immersive spaces through storytelling; inviting others to experience the celebration of histories, listen to the land and its people, and constantly engage the philosophical, conceptual, and social dialogues of our spatial surroundings. Absorbed in collecting and research as a means to creativity, the studio's work focuses on uncovering details and connections that challenge our spatial narratives. In both designing for clients or self-initiated projects, the studio values in depth research, being guided by process and activating conversation.
About Marina Hulzenga ︎ For over two decades, Hulzenga has been cultivating a career in creating spatial experiences. With a background in exhibition design, Hulzenga worked as an exhibit designer at both the Royal Tyrrell Museum (Drumheller, AB, Canada) and the Royal Alberta Museum (Edmonton, AB, Canada). Hulzenga has studied at MacEwan University (Edmonton, AB, Canada) for exhibition design and completed a BDes in Public Space Design at the Design Academy Eindhoven in the Netherlands. Hulzenga has presented work in both solo and group exhibitions, been awarded numerous grants from national arts organizations, and participated in national and international artist residencies.
Acknowledging ︎ As a third-generation settler to this land, I come from a Dutch immigrant family that settled in the woods southwest of amiskwacîwâskahikan/Edmonton, AB, near maskêkosihk/Enoch Cree Nation. Learning later in life that my family home was on the traditional lands of the maskêkosihk, I began to struggle with the question of ‘whose land am I on?’ Seeking to understand, I began a journey of getting to know my neighbours. This journey has led to a deep desire to continually listen and learn from the land and Indigenous voices, which is a commitment I have integrated holistically into my life.
I am grateful for the privilege of living and working on Treaty 6 territory, and to the Elders, land protectors and original caretakers of this land: the Cree, Dene, Nakota Sioux, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, and Métis people.
I acknowledge amiskwacîwâskahikan is also the home of many Inuit and to a diverse community of settlers from around the world. I strive to live with respect and in delight of this land and all its people.
