Southcentre Mall in Calgary and Colouring It Forward Reconciliation Society have partnered to launch a month-long art exhibit featuring 17 Indigenous artists from across Western Canada. The artwork is on display in Southcentre’s Art Corner space (near Hudson’s Bay on the second level) until September 30th.
Artist bios are also displayed as well as messaging about the significance of National Day of Truth and Reconciliation and thoughtful suggestions about how people can respectfully participate in the process of reconciliation within their own communities.
Attendees will also have access to a dedicated resource centre where they will be able to ask questions and engage with members of Calgary’s Indigenous community in a safe space.
The exhibit will culminate in a special event that will pay tribute to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (and Orange Shirt Day) on September 30th by inviting the Calgarians to gather for a day of community building that will help to deepen understanding of the experience of Indigenous peoples through traditional performances, family-friendly crafts and an invitation for open dialogue about Indigenous culture and the ongoing process of reconciliation. The opening ceremony, including traditional performances, will begin at 1:00pm on the 30th to be followed by all-day family activities (which are taking place 10:00am-8:00pm).
“We are honoured to have this opportunity to provide a platform that will allow for the amplification of the voices and stories of Indigenous peoples as they share their experiences, culture and heritage with the community at large,” says Alexandra Velosa, Marketing Manager at Southcentre Mall.
“We hope that this event will inspire others to take action to support Indigenous communities as we both acknowledge the past and work together towards building a better future where the traditions and culture of Canada’s Indigenous peoples are shared, celebrated and understood. We remain dedicated to working closely with the Indigenous community to further support and honour them as we increase our understanding of how they continue to shape our diverse country.”
