A new exhibit at Vaughan’s City Hall will give a spotlight to the work of three contemporary Aboriginal Canadian artists.
The show, called facingNORTH, aims to demonstrate how the oral traditions of Indigenous cultures are translated into visual art. In particular, facingNORTH is interested in showing visitors, particularly new Canadians, the importance of Aboriginal art and aesthetics to the field of Canadian culture as a whole, ranging from traditional Forms like painting and sculpture to newer media like film and graphic design. Visitors may also be inspired to start their own work, whether it be using household materials, products from art supply and Print shops, or a mixture of the two.
The three artists showcased all have work displayed in the National Gallery. Abraham Ruben’s soapstone sculptures demonstrate the influence of historic Viking culture on the Inuit and other indigenous groups. Billy Merkosak’s work has been described as “shamanic” and “ethereal”, drawing on legend and using traditional media like whalebone sculpture. Irene Avaalaaqiaq uses tools like cotton embroidery to try to capture her childhood memories and emotions. The show is curated by Sharon Gaum-Kuchar, who heads up the SLATE Atrium gallery in Vaughan.
facingNORTH will be on display at City Hall until December 24. The pieces are on loan from the Kipling Gallery in Woodbridge, which specializes in Canadian art.
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