EZHI NAMANG: HOW WE SEE IT

The Red Lake Regional Heritage Centre was extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to share in the creative gifts of the Anishinaabe people of the Red Lake area and beyond!

This exhibit showcased the fantastic art of the Red Lake Indian Friendship Centre. Many of these wonderful pieces were not been available to  the public until the creation of the exhibit. A total of 39 pieces art were displayed in the Temporary Gallery. This was the RLRHC's first exhibit since it's roof was torn off in September of 2019. The art show ran from October to December and attracted a lot of very interested visitors. We would like to thank the Red Lake Indian Friendship Centre for being so kind in lending us their amazing artwork.

Miigwech!
Boozhoo! Hello! Welcome! We are happy that you have come to share the creative gifts of the Anishinaabe (people) of the Red Lake area!

Since being founded in 1964, the Red Lake Indian Friendship Centre (RLIFC) has worked to promote traditional values through cultural activities. For many years the RLIFC has been the grateful recipient of unique and diverse artwork, and over time developed a significant collection for the benefit of the community!

The artwork was acquired in a variety of ways – as an exchange of gifts with other organizations, made by employees or clients and later gifted to the RLIFC, or made by local residents to be displayed by the RLIFC. The RLIFC also purchased original artwork to support local and travelling Indigenous artists. In years past, visiting and local artists came as often as once or twice a month, and still come a few times yearly. 

You may recognize the names of some of the artists whose work is in the RLIFC’s collection. Artists like Josh Kakegamic, Goyce Kakegamic, Robert Kakegamic, Norval Morrisseau, Paddy Peters and Barry Peters all had silk-screens and/or lithographs printed at Triple K. Co-op. Works by current or former Red Lake residents such as Allindsay Kakegamic, Dusty Kakegamic, Bill Mamakeesic, Morley Kakepetum and others are also represented in the collection. 

Among the many important Indigenous traditions is the exchange of gifts on ceremonial occasions such as gatherings with Anishnaabe groups or Friendship Centres (Giiwenamaw - to exchange gifts). Paintings, prints, carvings, baskets and other unique pieces of art were added to the collection in this way. Staff and visitors who visit the RLIFC at Site 1 and Site 2 have the privilege of enjoying this amazing artwork every day. Art is displayed in common areas, offices and even in storage rooms. Large artwork has even been incorporated into RLIFC buildings. In the 90s, Site 1 was rebuilt in the shape of a teepee. The stain glass above the vestibule was created by a local artist. The large piece located in the front reception area of site 1, created by Carl Ray, was originally painted on the wall of Bob Black’s house. When the house was sold, the work of art was cut out, removed, and incorporated into Site 1. Similarly, at Site 2 there are murals painted on the greenhouse and the shed. 

Today we have selected a representation of the RLIFC’s collection to share with you. With 39 different artists and a wide range of styles, we are confident that you will find something that speaks to you. Miigwech! Thank you for coming! Biindigen! Come in and enjoy!