From Empowering Indigenous Women to Drum-Making Activities at The Reach!
With three of the key winter exhibitions coming to an end later in April, The Reach
Gallery Museum Abbotsford has designed a number of bold and engaging public talks, tours and
workshops. The programs start on Saturday, April 4, 2015 at 1pm with a free Talk & Tour of the
exhibition Decolonize Me with curator Heather Igloliorte and artist Jordan Bennett. Decolonize Me
features six contemporary Aboriginal artists whose works challenge, interrogate and reveal
Canada’s long history of colonization in daring and innovative ways.
On Saturday, April 11 at 1 pm, The Reach features a free panel dialogue on Decolonize Me:
Empowering Indigenous Women through Visual Arts, moderated by UFV Indigenous Studies
scholar Dr. Wenona Victor. As Victor explains, “the panel will explore the ways in which colonization
has contributed to the levels of violence Indigenous women experience as well as explore ways in
which Indigenous women are empowering ourselves by decolonizing and reclaiming our roles and
identities. Panel presenters include scholars Dr. Michelle LaFlamme and Dr. Geoffrey Carr, and
artists Theresa Warbus, Lauren Krenz, and Carrielynn Victor.
On April 18 and 19 from 10am-1pm The Reach hosts two days of activities in celebration of
Indigenous knowledge. Carman McKay, multi-talented artist, cultural teacher and member of the
Sto:lo nation, will lead participants in a Drum-Making Workshop. This is a unique opportunity to
make your own fir frame, deer hide drum following the teaching of the Four Corners area of
America. This workshop is open to participants from 6 years of age and older (children ages 6 to 12
years must be accompanied by an adult) and the fee is: $125 for Reach Friend; $135 for future
Friend.
Then, on April 19 from 1pm-5pm, there is a free First Nations Teachings Workshop with Darla
Rasmussen and friends. First Nations learning supports the well-being of self, the family, the
community, the land, the spirits and the ancestors. Share this learning experience that begins in a
sacred circle of flowing energy focussing on the traditions and sacredness of the talking piece and
healing circles. Then gather around the big drum for words of teachings passed down from elders
and to drum for spiritual awakening.
The Reach Gallery Museum Abbotsford is located at 32388 Veterans Way. For more information or
to register for public programs, go to: www.thereach.ca.