Know I'm Here on Absolutely Canadian

Know I'm Here
September 1, 2018
Re-air July 20, 2019
7:00 p.m. on CBCManitoba

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Polar bear artist Kal Barteski organizes a massive art project in the subarctic town of Churchill, Manitoba. Motivated by the closing of the town's port, the loss of jobs, and the effects of climate change, Kal invites 18 artists from around the world to paint murals as a way of helping the community.

But, those goals become tested.

Just days before the art festival, an unexpected crisis strikes. Spring floods wash out the rail lineand cut off Churchill's lifeline to the south. Getting food and supplies becomes a daily challenge. The American company that owns the rail and the Canadian government are in a stand-off. The remote community becomes trapped and more isolated than ever.

• Full list of 2018 Absolutely Manitoba films

As townspeople deal with stresses and look for solutions, Kal and the artists work to create and do what all great art does: offer recognition and reflect a particular moment in time. These massive works of art transform the landscape and bring hope and recognition to a community feeling forgotten.

Directed by Elbert Bakker of Handcraft Creative

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