2024

WALKING ALONGSIDE TRAUMA  (WAT)

Curated by Raine Mckay, the Walking Alongside Trauma exhibition was a material-based arts exploration of the traumatization of sexualized violence. As one of thirteen participating artists invited to contribute to the exhibition, we were asked to examine the various impacts of the traumatization of sexualized violence on society, particularly for those who interact directly with survivors’ trauma (e.g., crisis support workers, family members, health care workers, educators, peers, etc.), who McKay referred to as “Witnesses”. Artists were paired with witnesses to translate their experience into objects that became the basis for both a national touring exhibition and wider community engagement through programming. The project was led by the Craft Council of BC in collaboration with McGill University and Douglas College.

WATER, CIRCLES, HEALING: acrylic ink on elk hide drum, 26 inches

When my Witness and I met to discuss our collaboration as Witness and artist, we agreed that our co-conceived works would focus on the positive aspects of her experiences, rather than the challenges. This perspective led us to explore her role as part of a team and the significance of working together to support others. We reflected on the symbolism of circular tables and drums—both of which bring people together—and this inspired me to create works on elk hide hand drums.

Together, we engaged in a contemplative practice before sleeping and after waking, using visualizations to generate the colours and symbols that were woven into these works.

Equally powerful is water, with its innate ability to heal, which is why we incorporated it into the work. My Witness Grace spoke about the significance of going to the water’s edge, a practice that holds healing potential for many of the people she works with. I included bladderwrack for its renowned cleansing properties, further emphasizing the theme of healing and renewal.

A SAFE PERSON: acrylic ink on elk hide drum, 26 inches

Further to our discussion, we focused on the profound impacts of having a safe person—how even one safe person can be transformative on the healing journey. To symbolize this, we chose a tree, recognizing trees as our relatives and beings we can always turn to for connection and safety.