Shumka x Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Shumka x Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is an industry research project led by Cemre Demiralp and Jennifer Woodin in collaboration with Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (CSBP), that explores how tactile sculptural design and digital fabrication can support experiential learning, accessibility, and intergenerational engagement in outdoor tourism environments.
This project brings together faculty, students, and industry partners to co-develop small-scale, tactile, 3D-printed sculptural artefacts integrated into guest-facing interpretive panels across the park. Between February to May 2026, student research assistants (RAs) will work together with CSBP’s Show Team in phased production sprints from research and concept development to iterative 3D modelling, prototyping, and in-park testing to translate ecological narratives and existing concepts into durable, touchable, production-ready 3D artworks for one of British Columbia’s most prominent cultural tourism destinations.
This collaboration aims to contribute new applied knowledge to tactile, sculptural storytelling in outdoor, public-facing environments. CSBP’s existing ecological narratives and concept designs will be translated into interactive artworks that encourage curiosity, engagement, and intergenerational learning. The project will deliver immediate value to the park through production-ready 3D assets, finishing specifications, and documented fabrication workflows, while generating transferable insights for future interpretive initiatives.
Project Objectives
- Translate CSBP’s existing ecological and interpretive narratives into durable, touchable sculptural forms suitable for outdoor, high-traffic environments.
- Develop and test a consistent visual and material language for small-scale “cameo-style” sculptures that encourage interaction while addressing safety, durability, and maintenance concerns.
- Provide students with applied research experience in 3D modelling, digital fabrication, and collaborative design within a real-world tourism and cultural context.
- Generate production-ready assets and fabrication workflows that CSBP can continue to build upon beyond the project timeline.
Project Partner
The Capilano Group comprises of retail, hospitality and tourism-based businesses anchored by Vancouver’s popular tourist attraction, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The Capilano Group’s diverse portfolio includes two accommodation properties in the Canadian Rockies, two retail gift shops in BC and Alberta and several food and beverage facilities.
Native Vancouverite Nancy Stibbard purchased Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in 1983 and has spearheaded the attraction’s development and phenomenal increase in attendance over the past thirty plus years. Nancy’s commitment to exceeding guest expectations and providing truly memorable experiences is the service promise on which the Capilano Group is founded. All of the organization’s marketing, administrative and financial activities are conducted from its headquarters at the Suspension Bridge location. Capilano Group employs over two hundred people seasonally in addition to the over two hundred year-round positions. Students receive exceptional training and, on average, return for three seasons.
Nancy Stibbard’s vision for the Capilano Group is to create experiences that people are amazed by. Following on her success at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, she has created and developed premium tourism related properties in truly unmatched natural settings.