Curator’s Talk: André Perugia
Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm (Doors open 6:30 pm)
Location: Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. W.
Tickets: Pay What You Wish
Step behind the scenes of the Bata Shoe Museum’s stunning new exhibition, André Perugia: A Design Legend Unveiled, with curator Nishi Bassi as she shares how the exhibition came together — from sourcing rare loans to the curatorial decisions that shaped the many intricate design and storytelling elements. Discover how Perugia’s innovative designs revolutionized footwear through bold experimentation, architectural form, and technical mastery, and how, nearly a century later, Perugia’s designs continue to influence fashion’s most daring creators.
Nishi Bassi, Curator and Exhibitions Project Manager at the Bata Shoe Museum, brings over 10 years of experience in the museum industry. Her educational background is in British history, and current research interests include fashion, consumer culture, and post-colonialism. She is also an EDI champion who strategically plans and advocates for change to ensure that accessibility remains a priority in all projects. Nishi has been with the Bata Shoe Museum since 2013, where she currently works as the Curator and Manager of Exhibitions. She also holds a volunteer position on the Board of Directors for ICOM Canada.
Please review our Terms and Conditions in advance and check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Questions? Email us info@batashoemuseum.ca anytime.
Stepping Through the Decades: A Luminis Choir Experience
Date: Saturday, December 13
Time: 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm)
Location: Bata Shoe Museum
Tickets: $45
Step into a world where timeless style meets unforgettable melodies at the Bata Shoe Museum. Set against the stunning backdrop of our upcoming exhibition André Perugia: A Design Legend Unveiled, this immersive evening celebrates creativity across the decades, weaving together the artistry of fashion and the emotional power of music.
Throughout the evening, the Luminis Choir—both as a full ensemble and in intimate small groups—will present beloved songs of the 20th century, each performance echoing the spirit and style of the fashion eras featured in the exhibition. As the night unfolds, the music will evolve—shifting from classical charm to chic lounge beats and stylish dance pop—inviting guests to mingle, move, and immerse themselves in a seamless fusion of sound and style.
Sip on fine wines, sample specialty drinks, and savor the atmosphere of this unique cultural experience. From the artistry on display to the music that moves you, this is an evening designed to delight the senses and celebrate elegance in all its forms.
Wine samples from United Stars Winery, Calmel & Joseph Winery, non-alcoholic options, light refreshments, museum access, and live music all included.
Please review our Terms and Conditions in advance and check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Questions? Email us info@batashoemuseum.ca anytime.
Co-Presenter
Supported By:
BSM x MOCA: Art Hive
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Time: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Location: Bata Shoe Museum
Tickets: Free, Registration Required
Join us at the Bata Shoe Museum for an engaging and creative experience painting on vintage shoe lasts, in partnership with MOCA! This unique program invites participants to use these fascinating objects as canvases to express their individual identities, perspectives, and artistic styles.
This activity will be guided by art therapy students who will be on hand to inspire and facilitate creative expression. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, all skill levels are welcome to participate in this vibrant and inclusive community.
As part of our commitment to accessibility, this program is free, and all materials will be provided. Please note, the focus for this workshop will be towards adults, seniors, and teens aged 16+.
Seating is limited and is on a first-come first-serve basis.
SHOE FACT:
Shoe lasts are a tool used by shoemakers to make the shoes. It comes in different shapes and forms used throughout the shoemaking process.
Please check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Ticket includes access to all exhibitions. Contact shan@batashoemuseum.ca with any questions.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, please review our Terms & Conditions to learn more about Visitor & Accessibility Services, Ticketing, Returns & Exchanges, Privacy & Media, and more.
Stitch by Stitch: The Art and Design of Cowboy Boots
Date: Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Time: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm)
Location: Bata Shoe Museum
Tickets: $20 General, $15 Senior (65+) / Student (With ID)
Step into the world of craftsmanship, design, and artistry with master cowboy boot maker Flora Knight, and musician, designer, and co-founder of Liberty Boots Tony Benattar. This engaging panel discussion, moderated by Elizabeth Semmelhack, will delve into their unique journeys and contributions to the enduring legacy of cowboy boots.
From Flora’s hands-on expertise in traditional bootmaking to Tony’s visionary designs and rock ’n’ roll-inspired aesthetic, the panel will explore how their distinct approaches shape the craft and creativity of cowboy boots. Together, they’ll share insights on the art, innovation, and challenges of creating footwear that blends functionality with unparalleled style.
The evening will feature an in-depth conversation, followed by an open Q&A session, offering you the chance to ask your questions about bootmaking, design, and the stories behind their most iconic creations.
Please check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Contact shan@batashoemuseum.ca with any questions.
Terms and Conditions apply.
Agenda
6:30 pm – Doors Open
7:00 pm – Panel Begins
8:00 pm – Panel Ends, Galleries Open
9:00 pm – Museum Closes
MEET THE SPEAKERS:
Musician and designer Tony Benattar founded his eponymous boot company in 1987 driven by his inability to find cowboy boots that matched his vision. From 1987 to 1993, he honed his craft in León, Mexico, collaborating with notable figures such as Vicente Fox, former President of Mexico, Yan Ferry, co-founder of Liberty Boot Co., and Mike Llama, grandson of legendary bootmaker Tony Llama. During this time, Tony developed his signature rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic while mastering traditional cowboy boot-making techniques that were rapidly disappearing.
In 1993 Yan and Tony founded the Liberty Boot Company and over the next 25 years the brand became synonymous with high quality and innovative design, adorning Hollywood stars, cowboy boot enthusiasts, and multiple generations of icons. Legends like Liz Taylor, Madonna, and Taylor Swift, as well as Tony’s rock ‘n’ roll heroes such as Bruce Springsteen, Steven Tyler, and Brian Setzer, proudly wore Liberty’s distinctive creations.
Flora Knight is a Canadian-born artisan celebrated for her distinctive, bespoke cowboy boots. Trained under master bootmakers Lisa Sorrell and Ray Dorwart in Oklahoma, Knight inherits a direct lineage from the original innovators of the American cowboy boot.
Her work is defined by vibrant, flowing designs and exacting craftsmanship, grounded in traditional techniques and a timeless aesthetic. From her Montréal atelier, Knight creates each pair entirely by hand using only the finest materials—an approach that stands in sharp contrast to the fast pace and declining quality of mass-produced fashion, resulting in a waitlist of approximately 18 months.
Every pair of Knight’s boots is made with care and intention, offering an heirloom-quality piece for those who value thoughtful, handcrafted design.
Elizabeth Semmelhack: As Director and Senior Curator at the Bata Shoe Museum for over 20 years, Elizabeth Semmelhack is a renowned expert on footwear, including sneakers, and regularly consulted by scholars and global media such as the New York Times, National Geographic, The Washington Post, Forbes, CBC, and CNN, to name a few. Named by FASHION Magazine as one of the “world’s top five game-changing fashion curators”, Semmelhack’s award-winning publications include nearly 30 articles and chapters as well as 14 books and catalogs including Out of the Box: The Rise of Sneaker Culture (2015), which has sold close to 40,000 copies world-wide, Collab: Sneakers x Culture (2019), and Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks (2022).
Boots and Spurs Cowboy Summer
Cost: Included with General Admission
When: Every Monday to Friday from July 8 to August 29, 2025 (except Civic Holiday – August 4)
11am – 4pm (Some restrictions apply)
Where: B1 level, Bata Shoe Museum
Our Boots and Spurs Cowboy Summer has arrived! Come and feel like you’re in the wild west with many cowboy crafts activities for kids. Drop-in daily for family fun activities designed for kids aged 4 to 12.
Daily Schedule
Exhibition Tours: 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
Explore the stories behind footwear from around the world with guided tours of our All About Shoes exhibition and our newest exhibition, Rough and Ready: A History of the Cowboy Boot.
Hands-On Presentations: 1:00 pm & 3:00 pm
Touch, feel and learn about a variety of extraordinary shoes from the BSM collection. Get up close with these incredible shoes and dive into the history of cowboy boots and other fascinating footwear. The collection will constantly rotate so come back again and again to experience them all!
Our summer programming is included with general admission and do not require reservations unless you attending with a day camp. Tours are on a first-come, first serve basis and are 30 minutes. Parents and or chaperones must be in attendance.
High Fashion Holidays: Winter Break at the BSM
Date: December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026 with exceptions
Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. W.
Cost: Included with General Admission
The Bata Shoe Museum is closed on December 25, 26 and January 1
Step into the world of Italian-French shoe designer, André Perugia (1893-1977) known for his innovative footwear designs with our family-friendly, themed winter programming. Inspired by our newest exhibition, André Perugia: A Design Legend Unveiled, drop in for a variety of hands-on activities, games, presentations, tours and prizes as you discover the work of one of the most significant and under-researched footwear designers of the 20th century. Crafts and activities vary. Drop-in only, no registration required. Children must be accompanied by an adult (18+) and attended to at all times while at the museum.
SCHEDULE:
Self-Guided Crafts ~ Monday through Sunday
Beaded Shoelaces: customize your shoes with DIY beaded shoelaces
Colouring sheets: design an elegant shoe with colouring templates
Shoe Origami: try your hand at paper sculpture
Activity Book: continue the fun all day with a take-home activity book
Guided Activities ~ Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays*
*Guided activities will be not be available on Wednesday, December 24
11:00 am: Elegance Through the Ages Game (inspired by Roblox)
1:00 pm: Guided Exhibition Tour
2:30 pm: Elegance Through the Ages Game (inspired by Roblox)
3:30 pm: Hands-on Presentation
Please review our Terms and Conditions in advance and check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Questions? Email us info@batashoemuseum.ca anytime.
(CANCELLED) Immigrant Dreams: The Culture Behind the Craft
Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 – CANCELLED
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm (Doors open 6:30 pm)
Location: Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. W.
Tickets: $15 General, $10 Senior (65+) / Student (with ID)
Join us for Immigrant Dreams, a powerful panel discussion exploring how children of immigrants are making their mark in the sneaker customization world. From turning passion into profit to navigating the challenges of the creative industry, this conversation highlights the resilience, artistry, and entrepreneurial spirit driving the next generation of sneaker artists and designers. Featuring Daniel Mossayebi, CEO of Inked Out Kicks, a leading sneaker customization brand pushing the boundaries of wearable art, Jasmin Pannu, award-winning multidisciplinary artist known for her bold, storytelling-driven designs, and Daniello Tetangco, founder of Daniello Toronto, a local clothing and lifestyle brand blending streetwear with cultural identity.
Whether you’re a sneaker enthusiast, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who appreciates the power of cultural storytelling, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.
Agenda
6:30 pm – Doors Open
7:00 pm – Panel Begins
8:00 pm – Panel Ends – Galleries Open
9:30 pm – Museum Closes
Please check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Ticket includes access to all exhibitions. Contact shan@batashoemuseum.ca with any questions.
MEET THE SPEAKERS:
A self-taught artist, Daniel’s work with Inked Out Kicks includes sneaker customization, sneaker restoration, special events, activations, and workshops. With a refined attention to detail, a love for drawing, and an obsession with sneakers, Daniel has worked with clients ranging from The Government of Canada, Puma, MLSE, Adidas, Xbox, Linkedin, and Pinterest. He treats each customized shoe as his own emphasizing quality above everything.
Jasmin Pannu is an award-winning artist who has created projects ranging from murals, to canvas works and digital product design for clients such as Lancome, Fritolay, Footlocker, UPS, City of Toronto, Nike and more. Her art practice is diverse in style and tools- picking up everything from a henna cone to acrylics, spray paints and ink to develop aesthetics that intrigue, bring beauty and create connection. She loves to teach when she can. The main intent around everything in her art practice is to challenge, to create, to transform- people, spaces and moments.
Daniello is the founder of local clothing and lifestyle brand Daniello Toronto. His love for art fashion and footwear has blessed him with the opportunities to work with various NBA athletes on custom on-court and off-court foot wear. He has worked with various celebrities like NBA star DeMar DeRozan, James Johnson, and music star Chris Brown. His dream is to have the outlet to showcase his artistic talent to the World and to one day open up a retail store in the heart of downtown Toronto and to be in a position to give back to the community.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, please review our Terms & Conditions to learn more about Visitor & Accessibility Services, Ticketing, Returns & Exchanges, Privacy & Media, and more.
Linocut Workshop: Shoe Themed Tote Bag
Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Time: 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm (Doors open 6:00 pm)
Location: Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. W.
Tickets: $50 General
Step into creativity with this hands-on linocut workshop! Learn the basics of linocut carving and stamping as you design and create your very own shoe-themed tote bag. Perfect for beginners and craft enthusiasts alike, this workshop will guide you step-by-step to craft a unique and stylish design inspired by footwear.
Please check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Ticket includes materials, access to all exhibitions, one complimentary drink, and light snacks. Contact shan@batashoemuseum.ca with any questions.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, please review our Terms & Conditions to learn more about Visitor & Accessibility Services, Ticketing, Returns & Exchanges, Privacy & Media, and more.
Embroidery 101
Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Time: 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm (Doors open 6:00 pm)
Location: Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. W.
Tickets: $50 General
Step into the world of embroidery with this beginner-friendly workshop! Explore the history of embroidered shoes through history, learn the basics of embroidery techniques, and create your own custom-embroidered shoe bag. Whether you’re new to stitching or looking to refine your skills, this hands-on workshop will guide you through the process, giving you a chance to add a personal touch to your bag.
ABOUT THE FACILITATOR:
Textile art has always been a part of Tracy’s life, thanks to the talents her mother and aunt shared from childhood onward. After studying fashion in university, she first worked in theatre and co-started a clothing label, Ambiguity Originals. Since then, her career has focused on creating historic reproduction costumes. Unable to sit still, she constantly seeks other creative outlets. Happiness is fabric, a needle and thread.
Tracy’s costume-based art installations began in 2007 addressing societal & environmental issues and those of a more personal nature. Fabric embellishments of many kinds mark her works with embroidery being a favoured treatment. Originally from the East Coast, Tracy lives in Toronto with her musician husband and cat.
Please review our Terms and Conditions in advance and check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Questions? Email us info@batashoemuseum.ca anytime.
Vintage Fashion Panel
Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm (Doors open 6:30 pm)
Location: Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. W.
Tickets: $15 General, $10 Senior (65+) / Student (with ID)
Calling all fashion enthusiasts! Join us for an exciting panel discussion exploring the iconic fashion of the 1930s to the 1970s in celebration of our upcoming fall exhibition André Perugia: A Design Legend Unveiled. Moderated by Julia Galvez of the Toronto Vintage Society, the panel features vintage shop owner Natasha Roberts of Spacevintage, journalist Nathalie Atkinson, and TV/film fashion expert and founding member of CAFTCAD Ian Drummond, this discussion will dive into the key styles and trends of these transformative decades and how these trends continue to influence fashion today.
Agenda
6:30 pm – Doors Open
7:00 pm – Event Begins
8:00/8:30 pm – Event Ends/Galleries Open
9:30 pm – Museum Closes
MEET THE SPEAKERS:
Nathalie Atkinson is a Toronto-based culture journalist and film critic. A regular contributor to The Globe and Mail, Zoomer magazine, and member of the Toronto Film Critics Association, she has also published freelance writing for FASHION, Vulture, CNN Style, BBC Culture, and Noir City. In addition to guest lectures and on-stage interviews at Hot Docs, TIFF, VIFF, TIFA, the Toronto Public Library, the AGO, and the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, Nathalie is the creator and host of Designing the Movies, a monthly film series of notable art direction, costume and production design on screen.
Ian Drummond has worked in the vintage fashion industry for about 40 years. He previously owned a vintage clothing store, 20th Century Frox in 1984 and currently owns and operates his eponymous business Ian Drummond Collection, a true vintage clothing rental resource servicing the Film and TV industry locally, nationally and internationally. The Ian Drummond Collection celebrates almost 30 years in the business and has been a prime resource for the industry and has been featured in top movies and TV shows like Fantastic Beasts, Chicago, Hairspray, and so much more. Ian is also a founding member of CAFTCAD, an association established to build communication for costumer designers across Canada and a board chair for the Fashion History Museum.
Natasha Roberts is a second-generation vintage curator and Fashion Management graduate from George Brown College. She grew up immersed in the industry through her mother’s store, Space Vintage. Over the years she developed a passion for personal styling and relaunched Space Vintage in 2017 in Kensington Market, establishing it as a go-to destination for curated vintage.
Space Vintage is a Toronto-based styling service that uses vintage and sustainable clothing to meet a variety of fashion needs. Her go-to styling service has helped thousands of people find the perfect look for life’s most special moments. Now celebrating 22 years in business, she continues to grow Space Vintage as Toronto’s premier styling service and go-top destination for vintage and sustainable formalwear.
Julia Galvez is a museum and events professional with over a decade of experience in Toronto’s arts and culture sector. Her passion for all things vintage has made her a dedicated collector and an active member of the Toronto Vintage Society—a community of vintage enthusiasts that showcases vintage events, businesses, and culture in Toronto. Specializing in historic and vintage knitting patterns, Julia brings the past to life through her craft. Inspired by film, television, music, and art, Julia’s work focuses on amplifying BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ voices through a political, socioeconomic, and environmental lens across the decades.
Please review our Terms and Conditions in advance and check in with Visitor Services upon arrival. Questions? Email us info@batashoemuseum.ca anytime.