FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED

Saturday, March 28, April 25, May 30, June 27, 2026 

Facilitator: Roxanne Brathwaite 

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The Little Esplanade Miniature Workshop Series invited participants into the art of making at small scale through four hands-on workshops at The Jamii Hub. Led by Toronto miniaturist Roxanne Brathwaite, this series offered a welcoming way to learn core miniature techniques while spending time in a creative, community-centred space. From tiny food and houseplants to baskets and books, each session focused on a different object and gives participants a chance to build skills they can carry into future miniature projects. 

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Designed for beginners and miniature lovers alike, these free workshops introduced practical methods for shaping, assembling, weaving, and constructing in 1:12 scale. Participants worked with accessible materials and learn how small details, texture, and proportion can bring miniature pieces to life. Along the way, they also got a feel for the care, patience, and imagination that miniature making invites. 

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This series was part of Jamii’s ongoing Little Esplanade project, a creative exploration of neighbourhood life through tiny forms and shared making. It was a chance to try arts and crafts workshops in Toronto that are tactile, focused, and rooted in community connection. Participants joined to learn a new skill, spent time making with others, or continued building toward future Little Esplanade phases. ​​​

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About the Artist

Roxanne Brathwaite brings both technical skill and a strong artistic point of view to this series. A Toronto-based maker, upholsterer, and miniaturist, Roxanne creates richly textured miniature interiors shaped by design history, warmth, and storytelling. She was a contestant on CBC Gem’s Best in Miniature and her work has appeared on Cityline, CBC Arts, Shrunk Magazine, Designers Today Magazine, and the Toronto Star. She has also exhibited with DesignTO and was a 2023 International Guild of Miniature Artisans scholarship recipient. Her approach makes room for care, creativity, and thoughtful attention to the spaces people inhabit, even at the tiniest scale. 

These workshops are open to people of all experience levels. No background in miniature making is required. Participants are encouraged to take part in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful to them. 

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Support free community arts 

Jamii keeps workshops free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. 

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Jamii's "The Little Esplanade" workshops are sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Metcalf Foundation, Rama Gaming House and Charitable Gaming.​