Indigenous art exhibit adorns MHC gathering space
A special art exhibit is on display in Ómahksípiitaa at Medicine Hat College (MHC) this month, celebrating the rich and creative history of Indigenous arts and culture.
Titled wawisihcikan - adornment, the exhibition includes 14 works of art by various artists that connect to a spiritual foundation, represent the importance of land and place, and define inherent culture.
Presented in collaboration with The Alberta Foundation for the Arts Travelling Exhibition Program and the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre, adornment is the first of several exhibits coming to MHC this year.
“Our new gathering space creates valuable opportunities for education and engagement in the community and we are honoured to welcome adornment to Ómahksípiitaa as its first exhibit,” says Chasity Cairns, manager of indigenous engagement student supports at MHC.
“These works of art represent the passing on of culture and teachings and I encourage all visitors to take time to read about the artists and the meaning behind each piece.”
In addition to viewing the adornment exhibit, visitors are invited to participate in craft circles where they will have the opportunity to create their own brick stitch beaded earrings. These events will be held in Ómahksípiitaa on July 13 and July 20 from 1 – 4 p.m.
Cairns hopes that people will walk away with a new or renewed appreciation for the artistry and beauty of Indigenous culture.
The exhibition is open to the community until July 26, 2023. If you are interested in attending a craft circle, please contact Cairns at ccairns@mhc.ab.ca.