A one-of-a-kind survey of internationally acclaimed First Nations artists opens in Brampton

James Simon Mishibinijma Thunder Spirits (detail), ca 2009

PAMA PRESENTS FROM THE HEART OF TURTLE ISLAND: CONTEMPORARY ART FROM MANITOULIN ISLAND

Brampton, ON. (Jan. 18, 2016) – A one-of-a-kind survey of internationally acclaimed First Nations artists opens at the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA) on January 24. All are welcomed to the opening celebration, featuring many of the exhibited artists, contemporary dancers and remarks from the curatorial team on Sunday January 31^st from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

From the Heart of Turtle Island: Contemporary Art from Manitoulin Island features the work of more than 30 Manitoulin artists, including the legendary Carl Beam, Anne Beam, Leland Bell, Mary Pheasant and many more. Through vivid paintings, drawings, prints and other art forms, the classic Woodlands style of painting is represented alongside other contemporary styles emerging from the island.  

“This exhibit offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the scope of artistic expression on Manitoulin Island in a single exhibition,” said Thomas Smart, Supervisor & Curator of the Art Gallery and Education Services at PAMA. “It is a powerful reflection of the First Nations experience in Canada, including the significant cultural and traumatic issues indigenous people still face across our country, as recently detailed in the report by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.”

The exhibition is presented by a curatorial team comprised of artists, curators and arts administrators, Nikki Manitowabi and  Mike Cywink; artist, musician and curator Mark Seabrook; curator and arts administrator Anne Benness; and PAMA’s Thomas Smart.  

“This exhibition demonstrates PAMA’s commitment to working collaboratively to tell the stories of our extended community, including Canada’s First Nations upon whose traditional lands PAMA is built,” said PAMA Manager Marty Brent.

PAMA partnered with several organizations to bring this exhibition to life including the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, the Wiikwemikoong Art Gallery, the Wikwemikong Development Commission and the Wikwemikong Board of Education. The exhibition received valuable assistance from the Clifford and Lily Fielding Charitable Foundation, Fisher Wavy Inc., and the Ontario Arts Council through its Annual Operating Grant Program for Public Art Galleries.

The exhibition will be on view at PAMA from January 24 until March 20. It will then tour to venues in northern Ontario.

Running concurrently with the exhibition are Carl Beams’ Selected Prints, highlighting the dynamic innovation of one of Canada’s most significant artists, and Spiritual Connections, an exhibition exploring the themes of spirit, myth and folklore.

PAMA is a place to explore and learn about Peel Region’s culture and heritage, as well as use conversation, questions and stories to help make new and fascinating connections to the surrounding community. Throughout the year, PAMA offers a variety of workshops and programs for all ages, families and adults. With so many different programs to choose from, PAMA has something for everyone. Operated by the Region of Peel, PAMA is located at 9 Wellington St. E. in Brampton. Visit pama.peelregion.ca to learn more.

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Contact:

Erin Fernandes Marketing Co-ordinator Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives 905-791-4055, ext. 7596 erin.fernandes@peelregion.ca

Lesley Hudson Communication Specialist Region of Peel 905-791-7800, ext. 4478 lesley.hudson@peelregion.ca

Issued for the Peel Art Gallery By:

STEPHEN WEIR
Stephen Weir & Associates | stephen@stephenweir.com
109 Castlefield Avenue, Toronto, ON
CANADA. M4R 1G5
Tel: 416-489-5868 | cell: 416-801-3101
www.stephenweir.com twitter: sweirsweir