First Nations Voice

JUNE 2016 PAGE 13 The heart of Winnipeg just got a little more artful, with the launch of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ's inaugural Indigenous Artwalk. The project features the work of 12 Indigenous artists showcased in 12 downtown windows from May until August. Each artist was asked to create a piece of artwork to reflect the theme of "welcome," a word that the BIZ hopes will resonate among residents and visitors alike. "We're very excited about the Indigenous Artwalk," says Stefano Grande, Executive Director of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. "Other cities throughout North America and around the world have promoted artwalks for many years, and this marks the first time we're doing a project like this in Winnipeg. "We're always exploring new ways to make our downtown streets more inviting and attractive, and I can't think of a better way than by decorating downtown windows with welcoming artwork." The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ's Aboriginal Peoples' Advisory Committee is happy to see an initiative that promotes talent from the Indigenous community – especially one which has the potential to create a deeper awareness and understanding of Indigenous culture. "Art is an expression of an artist's identity, and through artwork, people can gain a better understanding of who the artist is," says Sharon Redsky, a member of the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ's Aboriginal Peoples' Advisory Committee, and one of the artists in the Indigenous Artwalk. "It will be great for people to see the diversity of Indigenous culture as reflected in the artwork being featured throughout downtown Winnipeg." Redsky's art is on display at the Women's Health Clinic on Graham Avenue. The title is Water Welcome, and the work acknowledges Winnipeg's water source, Shoal Lake #40 First Nation – Redsky's home. The installation she created along with her cousin, Crystal Redsky- Smith, highlights the strength of their community, the healing power of women, and the sacredness of water. Around the corner at Don's Photo on Portage Avenue is Renata Meconse's display. The title of her artwork is Aniin, which means hello, or greetings, and can also be used to say welcome. Her contribution to the Indigenous Artwalk was initially inspired by a family outing. "I was out with my father several years ago, and saw a welcome sign made with wood and mixed media," explains Meconse. "I daydreamed about making this in First Nations languages, and the artwalk project has motivated me to finally complete my first one." Meconse is an Anishinaabe-Ikwe from Pinaymootang First Nation (Treaty No. 2 Territory) who has lived in Winnipeg most of her life. She is a proud mother of three, who has had the honour of working with First Nations communities in the field of communications and community outreach. Creatively, Renata has always loved drawing and painting, and has been inspired by Anishinaabe (Ojibway) artists throughout Manitoba and Ontario. Find more information about all the artists at: www.downtownwinnipegbiz.com/indigenous-artwalk #IndigenousArtwalk #finditdowntown RoseAnna Schick is a freelance writer and entertainment publicist. If you'd like to see your news in next month's Entertainment Beat, please email her at rascreative@yahoo.ca ENTERTAIMENT BEAT RoseAnna Schick. RAS Creative GOOD CREDITBAD CREDIT NO CREDIT WE CAN HELP! DON'T LET CREDIT GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR NEW SUV TOLL FREE 1-866-999-2499 All Canadian First Nations Auto Sales IT G T ET IN T Y U OUR NE NE NEW TR TR TR TRUC UC UC UCK OR OR OR SU All Canadian Fi Also Used Tires Jack Eshelman Ph: (204)334-0979 • Fax: (204)334-1813 Email: jackesh7@gmail.com Phone: (204) 663-1000 CELEBRATING INDIGENOUS STUDENT SUCCESS This spring over 350 Indigenous students were honoured at the 27th Annual Traditional Graduation Pow Wow, celebrating their academic achievements. The University of Manitoba is home to a dynamic community of more than 2,000 First Nations, Métis and Inuit students and thousands of Indigenous alumni. We are proud to acknowledge the accomplishments of these trailblazers and visionaries, who are leaders in our community. Read Vanessa's story at: news.umanitoba.ca/in-it-together/ Vanessa Kisilowsky, Cree graduate from Little Peguis Reserve, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Psychology

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