The City of Orillia in partnership with the Orillia Museum of Art & History invites members of the public to a gathering on June 24, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at the Orillia Recreation Centre (255 West St. S.) for a special reception to celebrate the new Indigenous art exhibit titled “Roots & Resilience: Expressions of Identity and Culture.”
The exhibit showcases six works of art from four Indigenous artists from Orillia and surrounding areas.
“Our Council is dedicated to strengthening our relationships with Indigenous communities, amplifying Indigenous voices, and gaining a deeper understanding of Indigenous heritage within our community,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “This gathering presents an opportunity for us to come together as a community to celebrate and honour the rich cultural heritage and creative contributions of Indigenous artists and we are excited to welcome community members to experience the inspiring artwork of talented Indigenous artists from Orillia and neighbouring areas.”
The theme invited artists to explore and celebrate the deep connections to their roots and the resilience of Indigenous culture. Artists were encouraged to submit work that drew inspiration from Indigenous cultural heritage, traditional practices, storytelling, symbols, spirituality, and resiliency. The artwork was selected in partnership with the City of Orillia, the Orillia Museum of Art & History, and a member from the Chippewas of Rama First Nation.
“The exhibit evokes a small boutique feel with unique pieces, some featuring intricate and delicate beadwork,” said Allie Bradford, Culture Coordinator. “Our intention is that this is the first of many initiatives to highlight Indigenous art and local Indigenous artists through our arts and culture programming and we look forward to continuing this initiative and potentially expanding it for subsequent exhibitions.”
The exhibit’s reception takes place during National Indigenous History Month, observed during the month of June, and serves as one of several community events taking place within the city throughout the month. The exhibit will remain displayed within the lobby of the Orillia Recreation Centre until December 2024.
To learn more about the artists and see other community events for National Indigenous History Month, visit orillia.ca/IndigenousInitiatives.