RISE – Reconciliation in Solidarity Edmonton

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Jennie Vegt, "Circles 2: Our Dance," 2015

oil on canvas, 24" x 30”

Opening Reception: Saturday, February 9. 2:30–5 pm

Free Exhibition Tours: Thursday, February 21 at 12:05 pm and Thursday, March 21 at 12:05 pm

Sat, 30 March 2019 at 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM In this Together: An Honest Chat Since Truth and Reconciliation Committee

Five years after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission held its final National Event in Alberta, join contributors of the anthology “In This Together: Fifteen Stories of Truth and Reconciliation” to hear about their continued connection to the cause of reconciliation. Contributors will be joined by local activists and community leaders for a frank conversation on how reconciliation has moved forward. Learn about the initiatives taking place in our region and how you can contribute to this ongoing work.

Panelists:

· Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail

· Miranda Jimmy

· Steven Cooper

· Hazel McKennitt

· Cheryl Whiskeyjack

· Carissa Halton

5 years after the Truth and Reconciliation Committee, panelists sit down and have an honest discussion about the past, present and future.

2019 marks the 5th anniversary of the final Truth and Reconciliation National Event in Edmonton. These events preceded the publication of 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The Gallery is committed to presenting contemporary exhibitions and programs that respectfully acknowledge the contributions of Indigenous peoples to ongoing education and development in this area.

We begin our new exhibition year with a ground-breaking collaboration from Edmonton-based group RISE – Reconciliation in Solidarity Edmonton. These committed citizens are resolute in supporting reconciliation in words and actions though positive and powerful means. Reconciling Edmonton is a collaboration including; Métis Poet Anna Marie Sewell; Historian and Writer, Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail; Visual Artist, Jennie Vegt and Cultural Connector, Miranda Jimmy.

The exhibition consists of seven paintings by Vegt. The paintings are based on archival photos from community, municipal and provincial archives. Individually, the images selected by the group for Vegt’s attention depict Indigenous and settler interactions from the signing of Treaty through to present day. Collectively they demonstrate ongoing reconciliation. Each piece is partnered with poetry created in response to the images. The exhibition features a robust program of events to engage visitors in their role as treaty people.

“Some have tried to change the past by sweeping it under the rug, but all we can do is change ourselves and change what’s happening now.” – Jennie Vegt