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Alex Gabriel |
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Alex Gabriel has worked as a writer for thirty years. She approaches each project with a passion for learning about new subject areas, uncovering interesting themes and concepts, and presenting relevant messages and stories to diverse groups of people.
She has researched and written about subjects ranging from Native cultures to complex ecosystems and advanced space science. She recently co-edited the book, “Harvesting the Fraser: A History of Early Delta” for the Delta Museum, and wrote a new chapter on the history of the Tsawwassen people to include in the revised printing. She has worked for a range of organizations including National Geographic, Climbing magazine, the David Suzuki Foundation and Greystone Books.
Alex applies her journalism training and years of experience in communications and storytelling to create an organizational pattern to a story — whether writing for a book or brochure, website, interpretive plan, AV script or other forms of media.
RELEVANT PROJECT EXPERIENCE:
RESEARCH & WRITING
ECHO MEMOIRS, Vancouver, B.C., 2007 to present
Conduct interviews, story and image research to write book-length memoirs of individuals and corporations. Recently completed a memoir of a World War II Royal Canadian Air Force pilot and business entrepreneur. Current projects include co-writing the ‘story of the story’ – the work, process and people behind creating an Echo Memoirs book, and the memoir of a young lad who died of viral encephalitis but inspired hundreds with his gentle soul, determination and talent.
GLENBOW MUSEUM, Calgary, Alberta, 2005 to 2007
Working with Unified Field and North Shore Productions, Alex wrote audio and video scripts, and text for interactive computer games for a new permanent exhibit: “Mavericks: An Incorrigible History of Alberta.” The scripts and computer games present important moments and characteristics in the lives of the visionary, risk-taking, creative and unique characters who moved Alberta in new directions in the cultural, political or social landscape of the province.
STORYSMITHING, Vancouver, B.C., 2008
Researched the history and culture of tea to produce a Briefing Document and background information for several new business enterprises.
80/20 COMMUNICATIONS, Moncton, New Brunswick, 2006
Write brochures, articles and advertorials on health and wellness.
SPIRIT OF THE KWANTLEN
Wrote interpretive text in consultation with representatives of the Sto:lo nation for an exhibit at Fort Langley. With Lillian Thom.
FORT LANGLEY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Wrote interpretive text for a new exhibit on the Hudson’s Bay Company trade and commerce. With Danna de Groot and Lillian Thom.
ENVISIONING & STORYTELLING, Vancouver, B.C. 1997 to 2006
Researched natural and human history, culture, resources and project background to develop Storylines and Vision Statements for developers, discovery centres, interpretive centres, communities, resort properties, and companies. In addition to research and writing, scope of work also included writing a Briefing Document for each project, and participating in two-day envisioning sessions, planning meetings and workshops.
Among the projects:
~ Mexico
Researched Aztec and early Mexican history and current culture for Punta Mita. Researched the natural and human history of the Yucatan for Mayakoba, a resort village with Rosewood and Fairmont properties.
~ Hawaii Researched and wrote about the Kona agricultural system, Hawaiian culture and traditions, and history of the Kona Coast.
~ Washington Researched and wrote natural history and history of coal mining, ranching and settlement in the Yakima and Cle Elum Valleys.
~ Georgia Wrote history of Savannah and outlying region for Savannah Quarters.
~ Virginias Researched and wrote about natural and human history of the Warms Springs Valley for The Homestead, and for Snowmass in West Virginia.
~ British Columbia Researched and developed ideas to move Whistler toward sustainability and establish the resort village as a leader in environmental sustainability. Researched and wrote storyline for Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and village being built in Golden B.C., and for a Discovery Center that will interpret the natural and human history of this area in the Canadian Rockies. I also wrote sections of the Storyline for Grouse Mountain.
DAVID SUZUKI / GREYSTONE BOOKS, Vancouver
Research for David Suzuki’s book “Tree: A Life Story,” Greystone Books, 2004. Worked with David Suzuki to develop ideas and perform research on tree anatomy, growth & development with interesting facts, quotations, anecdotes and scientific research.
RICHMOND NATURE PARK
Wrote text for outdoor panels interpreting the natural history of the bog ecosystems within the park. With Lillian Thom.
CALUM SRIGLEY, ARCHITECT, Vancouver
Promotional brochure “Creating a Sense of Place: The Architectural Visualization of Calum Srigley”.
GLORIA MANAGEMENT Inc., Vancouver
Researched blockbuster exhibits in museums throughout North America as preliminary planning for a major international traveling art exhibit.
OKINAWA SUBTROPICAL ZONE MEASUREMENT CENTER, Japan
Fact checked and edited brochure explaining the research performed at the Center, and the exhibits in the visitor center at their Communications Research Laboratory. With the Totalmedia Development Institute, Tokyo, Japan.
ALDRICHPEARS ASSOCIATES, Vancouver
Research, writing, exhibit development and communications management for interpretive and visitor centers, museums and science center projects, including:
~ Western Arctic Regional Visitor Center, Inuvik, Northwest Territories Alex worked as project coordinator, organizing a team of consultants and contractors that included designers with AldrichPears Associates, natural history consultant Harry Parsons of BUFO, Inc., as well as project architects, artists, and fabricators in the NWT and BC. Alex was also responsible for research, writing, design development, and artifact acquisition. Visited the communities of Inuvik, Tuktoyaktuk, Arctic Red River, Aklavik and Fort McPherson to source and purchase artifacts, and commission Gwich’in and Inuvialuit people to make traditional objects such as whale oil lamps, hides on stretchers, fishing nets made from caribou sinew, snowshoes, and hunting and fishing harpoons and spears. Maintained regular Client communications through faxes, phone calls, e-mail, and regular progress summary reports. Assisted with installation of the exhibits, and performed the final inspection of outdoor exhibits.
~ Canadian Arctic Exhibit for Seikai Peal Sea Center Sasebo City, Japan Developed the theme, story and text for an exhibit on the Netsilik Inuit people of the Canadian central arctic, and sourced all artifacts for display.
~ Mark O. Hatfield Marine Science Centre Newport, Oregon, USA Coordination and editing of final copy for a 15,000-square-foot centre dedicated to marine research. Alex worked with two other writers on this project, and also wrote copy for some of the exhibit areas. The exhibits are a unique integration of aquaria and science centre exhibits.
~ Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science & Technology Centre, Saudi Arabia Research, exhibit development and writing for the Children’s “Discovery Place” and “Living Worlds” galleries for a new science centre being developed in Al-Khobar.
~ Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area Interpretive Complex Newport, Oregon Research, story development and text for a new interpretive center, the historic lighthouse and interpretive trails, operated by the Bureau of Land Management. Worked with BLM staff, biologist and interpretive writer, Harry Parsons of BUFO, Inc. and Doctor Stephen Beckham, historian, to develop a storyline and produce copy for all graphic panels and A/V outline scripts.
~Communications, Museum of Science and Industry Chicago, Illinois Researched and wrote interpretive text for an 8,000 square foot exhibit on telecommunications technology, from the first spark of electricity to global communications systems with high speed digital, cellular and satellite technology.
BUFO INC., West Vancouver
Storyline and theme development for exhibits in the Freeman King Visitor Center at Goldstream Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. Rhythms of a Coastal Forest was the overall theme used to incorporate old growth coastal forest and a unique Mediterranean-like bioclimatic zone, the salmon cycle and the network of wildlife that rely on the salmon run, and a range of critters and creatures, including garter snakes, slugs and lots of salamanders. The Park also features a completely protected marsh area, and was a place of inspiration for many artists including Emily Carr. Alex has also worked with company founder, Harry Parsons, on numerous projects with Aldrich Pears Associates.
VISTA COLLABORATIVE ARTS, Vancouver
Researched and wrote ‘fascinating facts’ on airplanes and airplane history for the pre-show to “Wings”, an educational simulation attraction being produced as a SimEx Virtual Voyages™ experience for theaters in science centers.
H.R. MACMILLAN SPACE CENTRE, Vancouver
Researched and wrote for the Space Center and Planetarium. Quick facts on flight and airplanes for pre-show entertainment. With SimEx Entertainment, Shane Lunny Productions and Aldrich Pears Associates.
NAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS, Vancouver
Wrote personality profiles, industry updates and other articles, took photographs and edited several trade and industry magazines related to forestry, construction, hospitality and recreation.
EDUCATION
Journalism Arts Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, Calgary, Alberta, 1979 Numerous courses and workshops on writing, editing, communications and computer technology.
PUBLICATIONS:
“Jim Jackson, Entrepreneur: Always on Top,” memoir of RCAF pilot, published by Echo Memoirs, 2007-2008
“Tree: A Life Story,” by David Suzuki & Wayne Grady, Greystone Press, 2004.
“Harvesting the Fraser: A History of Early Delta”, Delta Museum and Archives. Second Revised Printing 2003. Co-edited book. Researched and wrote a new first chapter on the First People of the Delta and Lower Fraser.
INSIGHT Guide to Vancouver, APA Publications (Hong Kong) Limited, London, England, 1991
BANNERS AND BANDS, A Guide to Festivals of the Pacific Northwest, Upper Case Publications, Victoria, 1991
CONTRIBUTING WRITER/RESEARCHER FOR: Western Living magazine, National Geographic Traveler, WEST, B.C. Business, B.C. Bookworld, Vancouver CitiBusiness, Explore, Climbing Magazine (Colorado), Canadian Alpine Journal, and various other publications. 1981 – present
She has researched and written about subjects ranging from Native cultures to complex ecosystems and advanced space science. She recently co-edited the book, “Harvesting the Fraser: A History of Early Delta” for the Delta Museum, and wrote a new chapter on the history of the Tsawwassen people to include in the revised printing. She has worked for a range of organizations including National Geographic, Climbing magazine, the David Suzuki Foundation and Greystone Books.
Alex applies her journalism training and years of experience in communications and storytelling to create an organizational pattern to a story — whether writing for a book or brochure, website, interpretive plan, AV script or other forms of media.
RELEVANT PROJECT EXPERIENCE:
RESEARCH & WRITING
ECHO MEMOIRS, Vancouver, B.C., 2007 to present
Conduct interviews, story and image research to write book-length memoirs of individuals and corporations. Recently completed a memoir of a World War II Royal Canadian Air Force pilot and business entrepreneur. Current projects include co-writing the ‘story of the story’ – the work, process and people behind creating an Echo Memoirs book, and the memoir of a young lad who died of viral encephalitis but inspired hundreds with his gentle soul, determination and talent.
GLENBOW MUSEUM, Calgary, Alberta, 2005 to 2007
Working with Unified Field and North Shore Productions, Alex wrote audio and video scripts, and text for interactive computer games for a new permanent exhibit: “Mavericks: An Incorrigible History of Alberta.” The scripts and computer games present important moments and characteristics in the lives of the visionary, risk-taking, creative and unique characters who moved Alberta in new directions in the cultural, political or social landscape of the province.
STORYSMITHING, Vancouver, B.C., 2008
Researched the history and culture of tea to produce a Briefing Document and background information for several new business enterprises.
80/20 COMMUNICATIONS, Moncton, New Brunswick, 2006
Write brochures, articles and advertorials on health and wellness.
SPIRIT OF THE KWANTLEN
Wrote interpretive text in consultation with representatives of the Sto:lo nation for an exhibit at Fort Langley. With Lillian Thom.
FORT LANGLEY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Wrote interpretive text for a new exhibit on the Hudson’s Bay Company trade and commerce. With Danna de Groot and Lillian Thom.
ENVISIONING & STORYTELLING, Vancouver, B.C. 1997 to 2006
Researched natural and human history, culture, resources and project background to develop Storylines and Vision Statements for developers, discovery centres, interpretive centres, communities, resort properties, and companies. In addition to research and writing, scope of work also included writing a Briefing Document for each project, and participating in two-day envisioning sessions, planning meetings and workshops.
Among the projects:
~ Mexico
Researched Aztec and early Mexican history and current culture for Punta Mita. Researched the natural and human history of the Yucatan for Mayakoba, a resort village with Rosewood and Fairmont properties.
~ Hawaii Researched and wrote about the Kona agricultural system, Hawaiian culture and traditions, and history of the Kona Coast.
~ Washington Researched and wrote natural history and history of coal mining, ranching and settlement in the Yakima and Cle Elum Valleys.
~ Georgia Wrote history of Savannah and outlying region for Savannah Quarters.
~ Virginias Researched and wrote about natural and human history of the Warms Springs Valley for The Homestead, and for Snowmass in West Virginia.
~ British Columbia Researched and developed ideas to move Whistler toward sustainability and establish the resort village as a leader in environmental sustainability. Researched and wrote storyline for Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and village being built in Golden B.C., and for a Discovery Center that will interpret the natural and human history of this area in the Canadian Rockies. I also wrote sections of the Storyline for Grouse Mountain.
DAVID SUZUKI / GREYSTONE BOOKS, Vancouver
Research for David Suzuki’s book “Tree: A Life Story,” Greystone Books, 2004. Worked with David Suzuki to develop ideas and perform research on tree anatomy, growth & development with interesting facts, quotations, anecdotes and scientific research.
RICHMOND NATURE PARK
Wrote text for outdoor panels interpreting the natural history of the bog ecosystems within the park. With Lillian Thom.
CALUM SRIGLEY, ARCHITECT, Vancouver
Promotional brochure “Creating a Sense of Place: The Architectural Visualization of Calum Srigley”.
GLORIA MANAGEMENT Inc., Vancouver
Researched blockbuster exhibits in museums throughout North America as preliminary planning for a major international traveling art exhibit.
OKINAWA SUBTROPICAL ZONE MEASUREMENT CENTER, Japan
Fact checked and edited brochure explaining the research performed at the Center, and the exhibits in the visitor center at their Communications Research Laboratory. With the Totalmedia Development Institute, Tokyo, Japan.
ALDRICHPEARS ASSOCIATES, Vancouver
Research, writing, exhibit development and communications management for interpretive and visitor centers, museums and science center projects, including:
~ Western Arctic Regional Visitor Center, Inuvik, Northwest Territories Alex worked as project coordinator, organizing a team of consultants and contractors that included designers with AldrichPears Associates, natural history consultant Harry Parsons of BUFO, Inc., as well as project architects, artists, and fabricators in the NWT and BC. Alex was also responsible for research, writing, design development, and artifact acquisition. Visited the communities of Inuvik, Tuktoyaktuk, Arctic Red River, Aklavik and Fort McPherson to source and purchase artifacts, and commission Gwich’in and Inuvialuit people to make traditional objects such as whale oil lamps, hides on stretchers, fishing nets made from caribou sinew, snowshoes, and hunting and fishing harpoons and spears. Maintained regular Client communications through faxes, phone calls, e-mail, and regular progress summary reports. Assisted with installation of the exhibits, and performed the final inspection of outdoor exhibits.
~ Canadian Arctic Exhibit for Seikai Peal Sea Center Sasebo City, Japan Developed the theme, story and text for an exhibit on the Netsilik Inuit people of the Canadian central arctic, and sourced all artifacts for display.
~ Mark O. Hatfield Marine Science Centre Newport, Oregon, USA Coordination and editing of final copy for a 15,000-square-foot centre dedicated to marine research. Alex worked with two other writers on this project, and also wrote copy for some of the exhibit areas. The exhibits are a unique integration of aquaria and science centre exhibits.
~ Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science & Technology Centre, Saudi Arabia Research, exhibit development and writing for the Children’s “Discovery Place” and “Living Worlds” galleries for a new science centre being developed in Al-Khobar.
~ Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area Interpretive Complex Newport, Oregon Research, story development and text for a new interpretive center, the historic lighthouse and interpretive trails, operated by the Bureau of Land Management. Worked with BLM staff, biologist and interpretive writer, Harry Parsons of BUFO, Inc. and Doctor Stephen Beckham, historian, to develop a storyline and produce copy for all graphic panels and A/V outline scripts.
~Communications, Museum of Science and Industry Chicago, Illinois Researched and wrote interpretive text for an 8,000 square foot exhibit on telecommunications technology, from the first spark of electricity to global communications systems with high speed digital, cellular and satellite technology.
BUFO INC., West Vancouver
Storyline and theme development for exhibits in the Freeman King Visitor Center at Goldstream Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. Rhythms of a Coastal Forest was the overall theme used to incorporate old growth coastal forest and a unique Mediterranean-like bioclimatic zone, the salmon cycle and the network of wildlife that rely on the salmon run, and a range of critters and creatures, including garter snakes, slugs and lots of salamanders. The Park also features a completely protected marsh area, and was a place of inspiration for many artists including Emily Carr. Alex has also worked with company founder, Harry Parsons, on numerous projects with Aldrich Pears Associates.
VISTA COLLABORATIVE ARTS, Vancouver
Researched and wrote ‘fascinating facts’ on airplanes and airplane history for the pre-show to “Wings”, an educational simulation attraction being produced as a SimEx Virtual Voyages™ experience for theaters in science centers.
H.R. MACMILLAN SPACE CENTRE, Vancouver
Researched and wrote for the Space Center and Planetarium. Quick facts on flight and airplanes for pre-show entertainment. With SimEx Entertainment, Shane Lunny Productions and Aldrich Pears Associates.
NAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS, Vancouver
Wrote personality profiles, industry updates and other articles, took photographs and edited several trade and industry magazines related to forestry, construction, hospitality and recreation.
EDUCATION
Journalism Arts Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, Calgary, Alberta, 1979 Numerous courses and workshops on writing, editing, communications and computer technology.
PUBLICATIONS:
“Jim Jackson, Entrepreneur: Always on Top,” memoir of RCAF pilot, published by Echo Memoirs, 2007-2008
“Tree: A Life Story,” by David Suzuki & Wayne Grady, Greystone Press, 2004.
“Harvesting the Fraser: A History of Early Delta”, Delta Museum and Archives. Second Revised Printing 2003. Co-edited book. Researched and wrote a new first chapter on the First People of the Delta and Lower Fraser.
INSIGHT Guide to Vancouver, APA Publications (Hong Kong) Limited, London, England, 1991
BANNERS AND BANDS, A Guide to Festivals of the Pacific Northwest, Upper Case Publications, Victoria, 1991
CONTRIBUTING WRITER/RESEARCHER FOR: Western Living magazine, National Geographic Traveler, WEST, B.C. Business, B.C. Bookworld, Vancouver CitiBusiness, Explore, Climbing Magazine (Colorado), Canadian Alpine Journal, and various other publications. 1981 – present