Arts Whistler has a series of Indigenous-led events on tap at the Maury Young Arts Centre next week.
Part of its wider emhám series celebrating Indigenous arts and knowledge, first up is a three-part event exploring aspects of Anishinaabe culture, “delving into creation, the importance of balance, changing seasons, and the journey of the spirit,” Arts Whistler described on its website. Led by James Darin Corbiere, Part 1 on Aug. 2 centres on “The Creation Story,” which, in Ashinaabe culture, “introduces the emergence of the world and all living beings from the actions of the Female Creator, who brings balance and harmony to the universe,” Arts Whistler said.
Part 2, slated for Aug. 3, focuses on “Four Worlds Teaching,” a concept that “describes the different realms or dimensions of existence and the Anishinaabe way of life,” the event description goes on. “Each world has its function and role, contributing to the overall balance of the universe.”
Part 3, on Aug. 4, explores “The Spirit Journey,” a concept that “explores the end of life and the transition to a new existence,” Arts Whistler said. “The Anishinaabe perspective on life and death emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of living in harmony with the Earth.”
Admission to each event is $20, or $50 for all three sessions. Doors at the Maury Young Arts Centre open for each session at 6:30 p.m., with knowledge sharing beginning at 7 p.m. The events are intended for those 16 years of age and up.
Then, on Aug. 5, join two-spirit artist, comedian and activist Raven John of Coast Salish and Sto:lo Nation descent for Imprints: On Native Land, a “thought-provoking performance exploring your connection to colonization using ink, paper, and space,” Arts Whistler stated. “In this short performance, Raven will share a generational connection to the residential school atrocities while guiding volunteer audience participants in linoleum block printing. This piece delves into pain, grief, and intergenerational trauma, leaving participants with a profound sense of self and place.”
Doors at the Maury Young Arts Centre open at 7 p.m., with the performance starting at 7:30 p.m. Also recommended for those 16 and older. Tickets are $5.
Find tickets at showpass.com/o/arts-whistler.
Also ongoing at the Maury Young Arts Centre is the free exhibit, Reconcile This!, featuring works by four Indigenous artists—Corbiere, John, Lil’wat multimedia artist Levi Nelson, and Vancouver-based Cree artist Caden Lane—exploring the difficult themes around Truth and Reconciliation “as an avenue for activism and positive change,” according to the event description.
The exhibit runs through Aug. 25.
Learn more at artswhistler.com/emham.
