Nanaimo Art Gallery exhibit explores ‘weight and texture’ behind old photographs

The Nanaimo Art Gallery’s next exhibition brings new life to old photos.

Shnu’a’th, ᐊᑳᒥᕽ akâmihk, the Other Side, featuring the work of Cree and Métis artist Michelle Sound and Snuneymuxw artist Eliot White-Hill, Kwulasultun, will show at the downtown gallery from Saturday, Oct. 5, until Jan. 12.

The title of this exhibition “suggests both geographical proximity (the other side of the river) and spiritual proximity (the afterlife),” according to a press release. “Works in the exhibition consider relations with land, family, and ancestors through interventions in the medium of photography.”

The exhibit will ask audiences to consider the “weight and texture” behind photos and think about the subjects of the photos, the photographers, and the relationships and stories they represent.

“Sound and White-Hill begin with this understanding, and employ sculpture and installation to bring new life to photographic images,” the release added. “Through cyanotypes printed on elk hide drums, torn prints that have been repaired and adorned, drawings of spirits layered on top of archival images, and spindle whorl patterns cut out from historical landscape photographs, the artists work to enact care for their families, and communities, here and on the other side.”

The Other Side is the third exhibition that considers the Nanaimo Art Gallery’s current thematic question, how can we work together?

Sound, a member of Wapsewsipi Swan River First Nation in northern Alberta, is a multi-disciplinary artist who works with photos, textiles, paint and other traditional and contemporary materials and techniques to explores her Cree and Métis identity in her artwork.

White-Hill is another interdisciplinary artist interested in “honouring the stories and teachings that have been passed down by his family, community, and culture,” noted the release.

The exhibit’s opening reception happens Friday, Oct. 4, from 7-9 p.m., and there will also be an artist talk on Sunday, Oct. 6, from 2-4 p.m.

The art galley puts on a variety of fall programming for youths and adults such as art immersion programs, Indigenous crafting circles and painting and card-making workshops. For more information, visit http://nanaimoartgallery.ca or call 250-754-1750.

editor@nanaimobulletin.com