Indigenous art exhibit for Truth and Reconciliation opens at Southcentre Mall

CALGARY – A month-long art exhibit has kicked off at Calgary’s Southcentre Mall focusing on Truth and Reconciliation.

The federal government recently declared Sept. 30 as Truth and Reconciliation Day. It is also Orange Shirt Day.

To recognize the day, the mall and Colouring It Forward Reconciliation Society have partnered for the exhibit featuring Indigenous artists.

---

RELATED: Concerns raised around Truth and Reconciliation Day plans

---

Diana Frost with the CIF explains there will be a wide variety of pieces on display.

“The art pieces that will be in the exhibit are to depict the artists’ representation of an aspect of truth and reconciliation or Orange Shirt Day,” she explained.

Frost says art has a way of helping people process traumatic events, like the recent discoveries of unmarked graves at several sites of former residential schools across Canada.

“I just really think that art really helps people to deal with difficult matters, difficult topics. It’s a much easier way–much more soothing way somehow.”

---

RELATED:

• CBE to recognize Truth and Reconciliation Day

• Police investigating handful of cases looking at residential schools

• Ottawa allocates millions to searches for unmarked residential school graves

---

The mall’s Alexandra Velosa says Southcentre is excited to be able to elevate Indigenous voices.

“We hope that this event will inspire others to take action to support Indigenous communities as we both acknowledge the past and work together towards building a better future where the traditions and culture of Canada’s Indigenous peoples are shared, celebrated, and understood,” she said.

Seventeen different artists will have their work displayed at Southcentre’s Art Corner. The exhibit will also incorporate recommendations on how people can foster reconciliation in their own communities.

There will also be a final tribute on Sept. 30, the last day of the exhibit, which will feature traditional performances, crafts, and a conversation about Indigenous culture.

-with files from Kayla Bruch