(CHAT News)

By Adrian St.Onge

‘The eyes tell a story’: Esplanade to debut new Indigenous exhibition tomorrow

Jan 12, 2024 | 4:54 PM

The Esplanade Art and Heritage Centre will have a new Indigenous exhibition starting Saturday and running until April 6.

Here I am – can you see me? features 22 drawings featured aims to honor, give remembrance and give validation to the thousands of children who were forced to attend residential schools.

The Edmonton-born artist, George Littlechild, was taken from his home as part of the 1960s scoop. Littlechild’s art is often created in response to political movements, social concerns and personal history.

The City of Medicine Hat brought the exhibition in the show a continued commitment to truth and reconciliation.

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Aly Ledene is the Community Inclusion Coordinator with the City of Medicine Hat. Ledene says that part of the city’s commitment is offering a platform for storytelling to take place.

“I’m hoping that people really embrace the story that is being told.” Ledene said. “Personally for me, I’m drawn to the eyes. George did a very good job at creating the expressions. Just the eyes itself tell a story.”

“I think that if people who come here and view the exhibit, really study what is bring presented, I really believe they will have a personal impact, just by gazing at the artwork.”

Xanthe Isbister, the Curator for Gallery’s and Collections at the Esplanade, feels the impact is deeply rooted within the artist.

“The content itself is extremely sensitive.” Isbister explained.

“When an artist dedicates their time to exploring themes rooted in grief, for George to have the courage to create work in response to that and then to be brave to put it out into the world is immense, and we’re very grateful to have this in our community for everyone to see.”

The Esplanade would like to warn visitors of the sensitivity of the exhibition topic. Support lines are available by calling 1-844-944-4744.