Community Champion:
Coming Soon

View website Visit shop
Thompson

Thompson

Known as the Hub of the North, Thompson is the gathering place for members of nearby Indigenous communities, settlers, and newcomers alike. Situated on Treaty 5 Territory, it functions as a regional centre that connects many remote communities with essential services. Alongside its industrial and service-based economy, Thompson is home to a fast-growing arts scene.

At the heart of this movement is Mall of The Arts (MOTA), a community-driven organization that acts as an artist cooperative, meeting space, and hub for creative expressions. Founded by local artists and volunteers, MOTA makes the arts accessible to all by providing space, programming, and support for creative expression in all its forms. Through workshops, performances, and drop-in programs, MOTA has created a safe and welcoming space for all community members - regardless of income, background, or artistic medium. 

In 2025, MOTA moved from a small storefront to to a large, dedicated creative space with:

  • A renovated store area that functions as an art gallery and gift shop
  • A dedicated creating space intended for art workshops, crafting, and hosting events (under development)
  • A stage for rehearsals and performances
  • A recording booth (under development) to support music recording, podcasting, and storytelling

With start-up support from the Flin Flon Arts Council, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), and the Manitoba Arts Council, Mall of The Arts was able to establish its roots and build community momentum. That early support helped leverage recent funding and partnerships from the Province of Manitoba, the Manitoba Food, Culture and Community Collaborative, Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation (TNRC), imagiNorthern, and countless dedicated community members.

Together, these partnerships have helped Mall of The Arts grow into a true Creative Hub of the North — a space that brings joy, connection, and opportunity to Thompson through art, music, and collaboration.

Beyond Mall of the Arts, the city’s creative landscape includes many public murals, the long-running Thompson Festival of the Arts, Spirit Way, Thompson Community Gardens, Nickel Days, and numerous other grassroots efforts that express Indigenous traditions and new ideas. 

Mall of the Arts information:

Website: mallofthearts.com
Facebook: @NorthMota
Instagram: @mota_north
Email: admin@mallofthearts.com