Terra Simieritsch: Coexistence

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Terra Simieritsch, "Canis latrans," 2020

acrylic, coloured pencil, maps, tissue paper on board, 16 x 24”

Coexistence is a Leighton Art Centre Main Gallery exhibition by Terra Simieritsch.

Coexistence will challenge the viewer to reflect upon their own stereotypes and prejudices around common wildlife species that humans often come into conflict with. People often categorize certain species of wildlife as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ and how they interact with those species often stems from that initial judgment. It is interesting how these same visceral responses about certain species can be present even when interacting with art pieces of these specific birds and animals.

Each of the mixed-media pieces in the exhibit carry with them a wild creature that has an anthropogenic element woven into it. Maps, ribbons, flyers, words and common causes of conflict are present if you examine the layers of each piece. These art pieces represent the complexity of people and wild creatures cohabitating, intermingling aspects of their lives for better or for worse.

Through this exhibit the artist encourages the viewer to really examine what preconceived notions they have around certain species (be they positive or negative) and dig deeper into where those notions came from. By looking into why we have formed certain stereotypes and taking the time to see a given species in a more profound light, can we start to change how we feel and interact with that species? Can we find a way to coexist with wildlife in a way that allows them to retain the freedom to be wild? What does it mean to coexist?

While we had hoped reopening might be possible by now, current Alberta health measures continue to keep Leighton Art Centre (LAC) - together with our fellow Alberta museums and art galleries - temporarily closed. This new exhibition is being installed in the gallery, with the expectation that in-person visits might be possible towards late March. But, in the meantime, the show must go on! 

Virtual visitors are invited to view the exhibition’s online catalogue, which will be available on the LAC website by 4 pm on Friday March 12, 2021. When in-person visits become possible, please check leightoncentre.org for current operating hours.