About Event：tewaká:wes—meaning “we all paddle” in Kanien'kéha (Mohawk)—is a celebration of Indigenous artistry and cultural resilience, presented as the grounding purpose behind the UpFRONT Festival of Indigenous Arts, Music and Culture. This multidisciplinary visual arts exhibition showcases the unique perspectives and talents of seven Indigenous artists: Laiken Breau, Raven Davis, Megan Feheley, Kikki Guerard, Jordyn Hendricks, Tristan McTague, and Alexis Nanibush-Pamajewong.
The title, tewaká:wes, speaks to the symbolism of the canoe in Indigenous cultures: a vessel of both literal and metaphorical journeying, embodying the collective strength and interconnectedness of our communities. Just as our ancestors navigated waterways with purpose and unity, so too do we navigate the complexities of contemporary artistic expression.
The works in tewaká:wes are explorations of personal identity, relationships with land, urban spaces, material exploration, and anti-colonialism, both poetic and profound, beautiful and intriguing. Through a variety of mediums and techniques, the artists navigate personal and collective histories and knowledges, reflecting on the profound connections between past and present. Their visual storytelling serves as both a tribute to their ancestors and a vision for future generations, underlining the interconnected journey of paddling through life with intention, creativity, and expression.
tewaká:wes invites viewers to engage with the vibrant and multifaceted world of Indigenous art and is a reminder of the enduring power of art to navigate, connect, and inspire.
