Union and the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund present

Here Now, Here Always: Walk with Us

Sponsored by TD

June 2, 2022 – December 31, 2022

This installation by Anishinaabe artist Emily Kewageshig depicts four figures who walk ahead into the future, striving forward with ways of being and existing. The painting symbolizes the importance of culture transitioning throughout time and history. Kewageshig created the imagery to display how life is cyclical: it shifts, changes, and adapts in cycles in order to preserve knowledge and allow for continuity of future generations. Kewageshig ties this piece back to her homelands by using naturally found materials to ground the art piece and create a direct connection to where she comes from. The artist encourages viewers to recognize the history that is rooted in the land that we reside on, and to encourage viewers to Walk with Us on this journey, while imagining a future of togetherness.

Emily Kewageshig is an Anishnaabe artist and visual storyteller from Saugeen First Nation No. 29. Her work captures the interconnection of life forms using both traditional and contemporary materials and methods. Her work is centered around themes of birth, death, and rebirth as they are closely intertwined in both her cultural teachings and personal lived experiences. Emily attended Sheridan College’s Visual and Creative Arts program, as well as OCAD University’s Indigenous Visual Culture program. She continues to create artwork for various organizations to highlight Indigenous knowledge and culture.

This project is an expansion of Union’s long-term partnership with the Downie Wenjack Fund, which focuses on education and awareness of Indigenous history and our shared path towards reconciliation.

About Union

Union is committed to reflecting the diversity of Canadians in all our programs and operations. Our programming vision encourages and celebrates creativity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility. Our goal is to strengthen the connection between public art and civic engagement ultimately create connectedness amongst our communities.

About the Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund

Inspired by Chanie’s story and Gord’s call to build a better Canada, the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund aims to build cultural understanding and create a path toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Our goal is to improve the lives of Indigenous people by building awareness, education, and connections between all peoples in Canada. Learn more

About TD

TD is committed to growing our relationships with Indigenous Peoples. We recognize there is more work to be done on our collective journey towards Truth and Reconciliation and we will continue to support initiatives that promote early learning, enhance financial education, support equitable health outcomes and celebrate Indigenous culture. Learn more