What is The Story Grounds?”

The Story Grounds is a creative research lab led by Dr. Michelle Lam, based at Brandon University. Our research centres storytelling, arts-based methods, and ethical collaboration, especially around Indigenous-settler research and community-based research in rural places.

Why “The Story Grounds”?

Stories don’t just float around in space. They are rooted in specific places, land, memories, and relationships. So stories are ‘grounded.’ And we want the lab to be a space where stories can take root and grow through care and kindness. The plural “grounds” is to honour the many different voices, worldviews, places, and histories that shape our stories.

Can I join the lab as a student?

We occasionally hire undergraduate and graduate research assistants, and Dr. Lam supervises graduate students whose research aligns with our themes through a Community-Based Research Practicum. See our Opportunities Page for current openings or how to express interest.

What kinds of projects do students work on?

It depends on the project. Students might help conduct a literature review, check a transcription, do collaborative research, write, organize events, or something else. We aim to match responsibilities with students' interests and learning goals.

Do I need to have an arts background?

No, you don’t. We value interdisciplinary approaches. If you’re drawn to storytelling, relational research, and ethically working with communities, you may be a good fit regardless of your background.

I have an idea for a project. Can we collaborate?

We love hearing new ideas! Please visit the Contact page and share a short description of your idea, your connection to it, and how you imagine working together.

Do you work with Indigenous communities?

Yes. A lot of our work involves partnerships with Indigenous Peoples. As a non-Indigenous researcher, Dr. Lam approaches this work with humility and a deep commitment to ethical, relational practice. We follow community-led protocols and do not extract or own the stories of others.

Can you help us with filming, editing, or archiving our stories?

It depends on the project’s goals, scope, timeline, and fit. If you're a community organization or group seeking technical or artistic collaboration, please reach out through our Opportunities or Contact page with details.

Can I watch or access your films and projects?

Yes, when the owner of the film or artwork has given permission for us to share it. Visit the Projects page for descriptions and links to films or research outputs (when available). Some projects may be password-protected or accessible only through community partners, based on consent agreements.

Do you host screenings or workshops?

Yes! We occasionally offer screenings, guest talks, or storytelling workshops. Check the [News & Events] section to see what is coming up, or Contact Us if you’d like us to host in your location.

How do you approach storytelling ethically?

Holding space for stories and supporting people in telling their stories means following the direction of cultural protocols, ethical relationality, and care. Our community members, partners, and storytellers are involved in decision-making, authorship, ownership, and control. We don’t collect stories or extract stories. We think of stories as a process of building relations, not as a product.