101-111 Sparks Street, Ottawa Window spaces at Sparks and Metcalfe
Beaded works are meticulously created using a variety of hand-stitching techniques, or with the use of tools such as looms. Every technique creates different patterns, ranging from geometric to floral. Different Indigenous groups have their distinct traditional patterns passed down through generations.
These artworks come together to showcase the beauty, intricacy, and diversity of Indigenous beadwork. Beading has many traditional purposes, such as ceremony, ornamentation, and communication; and these contemporary artworks were meticulously pieced together in order to address the pertinent issues of today.
This exhibition showcases enlarged artworks by Indigenous artists from the City of Ottawa Art Collection and an artist who recently exhibited at Karsh-Masson Gallery.
Biographies
Barry Ace
A debendaagzijig (citizen) of M’Chigeeng First Nation, Odawa Mnis (Manitoulin Island), Ontario, Canada. His work embraces the impact of the digital age and how it exponentially transforms and infuses Anishinaabeg culture with new technologies and new ways of communicating. His work bridges historical and contemporary knowledge, art, and power.
Shelby Lisk
A multidisciplinary artist, filmmaker, and photographer with roots in Kenhtè:ke (Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory) whose art practice is grounded in her connection to and place in the world as a Kanyen’kehá:ka woman.
Nadia Myre
A member of the Algonquin First Nation of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg. She brings to light the social and political struggles of Indigenous peoples. The works in the series Meditation (Respite) incorporate beadwork that make thematic connections with cosmic elements.