City unveils new Indigenous arts and stories exhibition at RBC Place

Today the City of London, in partnership with the London Arts Council and RBC Place, unveiled a new Indigenous art display at RBC Place. This was commissioned by the London Arts Council through the City of London’s Indigenous art collection project.

Woven Into Myself is a series of seven drawings created by Mackenzie Beirnes-Daniels, a London-based Cree First Nations artist. The drawings reimagine the story Jay and Gizmo Learn About Boys with Braids by Kristi White, drawing on the story’s themes of masculinity, colonization, and the tension between Western gender norms and Indigenous tradition.

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Jay and Gizmo Learn About Boys with Braids by author and member of the Oneida Nation of the Thames, Kristi White, is the third book in the Adventures of Jay and Gizmo series. Taking inspiration from Indigenous cultures, Kristi focuses on themes that encourage independence of spirit, enthusiasm for learning, and acceptance of the traditions of other cultures.

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We Are Still Here is a mural created by artist Mike Cywink, who grew up in Whitefish River First Nation and now resides in London. Each of the seven panels provide insights into the Seven Grandfather Teachings, and tells the story of Canada’s Residential School Survivors, including the children who were lost through the system. It is also known to be a story of hope, courage, new beginnings, and a celebration of Indigenous arts, culture, and knowledge.

“Public art helps tell the stories that shape our community and create opportunities for reflection, learning and connection,” said Mayor Josh Morgan. “These works honour Indigenous voices, experiences and traditions, and I’m grateful to the artists and partners who helped bring this important project to life.”

Although Mayor Morgan was unable to attend the unveiling, he shared his appreciation for everyone involved in bringing the installation to the community.

These works will remain on exhibition at RBC Place until August.

Public Art and Monument Program

The City of London’s Public Art and Monument Policy and Program facilitates the creation of public art and monuments in London, which bolsters civic pride and identity, beautifies our community, provides focal points for community celebration, and creates meaningful employment for artists, creators, and practitioners of traditional arts.

Permanent Indigenous Art Collection Project

City of London Culture Services in partnership with the London Arts Council is committed to cultivating relationships with local Indigenous communities. Civic Administration implemented the Indigenous Art Collection Project based on a decolonized approach that emphasizes on-going relationship building, Indigenous representation throughout project development, and honouring Indigenous art and culture.

The City invested $100,000 from its Cultural Prosperity Reserve Fund to establish a permanent Indigenous artwork collection.