Curatorial Statement

Celebration of Nations
. . . we are all from somewhere . . .

For hundreds of years, Indigenous peoples have adapted and survived the effects of colonization and globalization. Now at a crossroad, we have chosen to take the path forward together. Honouring and celebrating our ancestors through the contributions of our languages, histories, spiritualities, teachings, and our creativities all the while our gaze firmly fixed forward to our future generations.
How do we claim our place in this time and beyond?

As we look for ways to preserve our languages, teachings, traditions and lands; we know our worldviews and sense of rootedness can be the way forward in a global community looking for new constructs of citizenship and belonging. Through our contemporary cultural leaders in visual arts, crafts, film, dance, theatre, music, storytelling, and many, other forms we share our visions and voices for a future filled with power and renewal. Planet IndigenUS will evoke a sense of transformation of ideals about Indigenous cultures. The beauty of being Indigenous is to have an identity beyond country, territories and borders. Essential connections to our territories remain unchanged, while our people gather both virtually and physically. As we have done for millennium we will gather together again to create dialogue, exchange and partnership that will foster a sense of renewal for all nations.

Marc Merilainen, Co-Artistic Director
Janis Monture, Co-Artistic Director, Woodland Cultural Centre