U of W kicks off 9-day ArtsFest with indigenous exhibits

It'sa rare opportunity to see some stunningart treasures. The University of Winnipeg opens its doors to the public for an inaugural nine-day ArtsFest, Sept. 27 - Oct. 5. And among the offerings is an exhibition ofContemporary Indigenous Artat Convocation Hall.

"I'm really thrilled that we can share these pieces with the public," says curator Jennifer Gibson.

The collection consists of 15 paintings and prints,including two silkscreens byOjibwayartistDapheOdjig. "Odjigis known as the grandmother of contemporary Indigenous art," explains Gibson. "She's nationally and internationally recognized."

"These are two really famous images by her," says Gibson.

In the early 70s, Odjig illustrated a book called Tales from the Smokehouse, which became wildly popular. Shedecided to create a limited series of silkscreens from those images.

Odjiigalso co-foundedthe Professional Native Indian Artists Inc., back in the '70's, which people refer to as the "Indian Group of Seven."The other founders were Jackson Beardy, Eddy Cobiness, Alex Janvier, Norval Morrisseau, Carl Ray and Joseph Sanchez.

"That happened here in Winnipeg in the early70s, so it's very critical and those are amazing pieces," says Gibson.

The collection also features two silkscreens by JacksonBeardy, includingSturgeon Clan. "That is his clan so I see that as as pretty significant image."

The UWinnipeg ArtsFestis incredibly wide-ranging and coincides with Culture Daysthis weekend.

It kicks off Sept. 27 with a gala co-hosted by singer Len Cariouand artist Wanda Koop. In addition to theexhibit of Indigenous art is another art show called Boys Club, featuring works that are representations of masculinity. There will also be films and theatre, music at 12:30every day hosted by theVirtuosi Concert Series and the UWSA's Freestyle Festival celebrating everything from basketball tohip hop culture. Diversity Foods will also offer back-door lunchesall next week.

"We really want to get people out here and enjoy art and culture on our campus," concludes Gibson.

The Contemporary Indigenous Art show is open at Convocation Hall through the weekend 12-4 and from Oct. 1 - 5 from 10-4.