Richmond Hill Public Library (RHPL) and York Region District School Board (YRDSB) are hosting an unveiling of Kwiinwining - In the Community, an authentic community art project that will be a permanent fixture of RHPL’s Richmond Green Branch. Led by Indigenous artist Keith Gattie and created in collaboration with passionate student artists from YRDSB, the installation will be revealed on Saturday, June 17, 2023.
"What does community mean to you?" is the driving question behind this impactful project, which invited YRDSB high school students of all backgrounds and creative styles to share their unique vision through canvas painting. Over the past several weeks, the students collaborated with Gattie to contribute to a stunning art installation that reflects the diversity, history and creativity of our community through the eyes of its young residents.
"Kwiinwining - In the Community embodies the Library's commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and celebrating Indigenous heritage during National Indigenous History Month," says Darren Solomon, CEO, Richmond Hill Public Library. "In our spaces, on our shelves and through our programs, we reflect the diversity and stories of our community through ideas and creative expression. This amazing collaborative art piece is about bringing people together, learning, and creating a meaningful platform for important voices.”
The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at Richmond Green Branch.
The event will include captivating drumming ceremonies by Indigenous artist and educator Brian Dwayne Sarazin.
Following the ceremony, a reception will be held with an opportunity to engage with the artists.
10:30 a.m. Introduction and land acknowledgment
Darren Solomon, CEO, RHPL
David West, Mayor, City of Richmond Hill
Opening drumming ceremony
10:40 a.m. Mural introduction and reveal
Keith Gattie, professional Indigenous artist
Honouring drumming ceremony
10:55 a.m. Closing remarks
Ron Lynn, Board Chair, YRDSB
Closing drumming ceremony and blessing
11:00 a.m. Photo opportunity
"We are very happy to have been partners on this project,” Andrew McConnell, First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education Coordinator. “It was truly a collaborative project between the artist, the board and the library that demonstrates how to carry out meaningful work with people from diverse Indigenous communities living and working in urban areas."
For more information about Kwiinwining - In the Community and other events at Richmond Hill Public Library, visit www.rhpl.ca/indigenous.
