This year, OCAD University recognizes a decade of its Indigenous Visual Culture (INVC) program. INVC is a Bachelor of Fine Arts program in the Faculty of Arts & Science, honouring the creative traditions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit art and design practices.
The INVC program occurs on the homelands of the Haudenosaunee, the Anishinaabeg and the Wendat. INVC sets its intentions to live within the laws of these host nations and to building meaningful relationships with the lands and waters.
OCAD U is celebrating 10 years of INVC with two exhibitions opening on June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Nigig Diving the Depths: 10 years of INVC at OCAD U
Nigig Diving the Depths: 10 years of INVC at OCAD U opens on June 21 and runs until August 14, 2023, at OCAD U’s Ignite Gallery located on the second floor at 100 McCaul St. Join us for an opening reception on June 21 at 3 p.m. at Ignite Gallery.
This exhibition will showcase the talent and diverse practices of the INVC community, including current and former students and faculty. Artists include: Kaiatanoron Dumoulin Bush, Meg Feheley, Jordyn Hendricks, Jason Lujan, Alexis Nanibush-pamajewong, Tannis Nielsen, Sadie Red Wing, Ryan Rice and Julia Rose Sutherland.
Nigig, the otter, is the totem of the Indigenous Visual Culture program at OCAD U. We chose the otter because they dive down into the depths of unknown waters and emerges with a tool upon which to crack open the shell of their imagination. They are playful, dexterous, inventive, curious, filled with boundless energy and joy.
The Indigenous Student Association exhibition, Odemin also opens on June 21, at OCAD U’s Ada Slaight Gallery, located on the second floor at 100 McCaul St. This exhibition runs from June 21 to July 3, 2023, and is curated by Tristan McTague. Join us at the opening reception, which also takes place on June 21 at 3 p.m.
Translating to “heart berry,” Odemin will provide Indigenous students and alums with the opportunity to showcase their cultural pride. The exhibition brings together Indigenous artists from all programs as part of an intersecting celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Summer Solstice and the 10-year anniversary of INVC.