The Robert McLaughlin Gallery is very excited to host our first artisan market of the year in partnership with the City of Oshawa.
The RMG Spring Artisan Market will take place on Sunday, June 11th from 11-4PM. Our market will be conducted indoors, alongside the Oshawa Peony Festival.
Featuring high-quality artisans from across the GTA, we strive to provide a unique and local shopping experience.
The Robert McLaughlin Gallery is celebrating Doors Open in Oshawa on May 6th. Come discover this year’s theme with us, FOOD!
Admission and events are all FREE!
Join a guided architecture + art tour
11 AM and 2 PM
Our welcoming Visitor Engagement Assistants will deliver tours of this stunning modern building. Discover the original vision for Oshawa’s public gallery, brought to life in 1969, and how architect Arthur Erickson designed a massive 36,000-square-foot extension that made the gallery what it is today.
Participate in a family-friendly art-making activity
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Have fun making your very own food inspired piece of art, combining gel plate printmaking with decorative paper collage techniques. It’s a recipe for creativity!
Emerging Visions: Durham College Thesis Exhibition
Visit our gift shop
The Robert McLaughlin Gallery has a history of supporting and promoting local artists, artisans, and makers. The RMG shop features products from across Ontario, including jewelry, ceramics, books, home goods, and Indigenous designed and manufactured products. Each sale helps support local artisans and our free community programs.
The RMG Shop is located in the lobby of The Robert McLaughlin Gallery.
Let’s celebrate spring together! We are offering an afternoon of tea, tours, a floral arranging workshop, and watercolour painting opportunities. This free event is funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.
Schedule of events
Tours of the RMG exhibitions at 1pm and 2pm
Watercolour Flowers workshop 1:30-2:00pm or 2:30-3:00pm (drop in maximum 15 per session)
Floral Arranging Workshop with Brookstead Flowers 1:30-2:30pm (waitlist available)
Tea and Coffee in our onsite Arthurs Restaurant 1-3pm
Come share Pride with us at the RMG! It takes courage to wear heels with confidence, imagine with a wig! Some of Durham’s best drag performers are going to show us how it’s done. Come see our divas and bring your hottest heels. Get ready to stomp down the runway at the end of the night!
Orlandra Bloom is your Filipina Goddess and dancing diva of Oshawa! This queen loves to hit the stage all over Ontario and can often be found dipping, spinning, and splitting to all her favourite hits. Orlandra is a natural born drag queen who has always admired the women in her life and how they’d get themselves put together.
Big D. Elle sashayed into the Toronto drag scene a year ago and has been delivering jaw-dropping performances across the GTA ever since. Bearded and beautiful, they are here, they are queer, and they are ready to turn the party.
Kali Kontour is a young drag artist from Oshawa. Kali was inspired to start drag after teaching herself how to sew and do makeup during the COVID-19 lockdowns. She began performing in March 2022 and has taken Durham Region by storm over the last year. Since beginning drag Kali has had the opportunity to teach children about Pride during story times, participate in her first ever drag pageant, and connect with so many inspirational people that she is honoured to have had the opportunity to meet. Kali’s favourite part of drag is the opportunity to connect with her inner femininity that she often felt ashamed of as a child. Now, she is fearless.
Audrey Gold Bloom is a new drag performer who first hit the stage earlier this year. Her inspirations are old school divas, dance hits, and contemporary power performers. Audrey is a sensational performer who knows how to command the stage. This young queen is a force to be reckon with and is set for the stars!
Playing in the Lookout
F^¢K ‘€M R!GHT B@¢K
(12.5 mins)
Directed by Harris Doran
A queer Black Baltimore rapper must outwit his “out-to-get-him” day job boss, in order to avoid being fired after he accidentally takes drugs.
Edgy
(2.5 mins)
Student film from Germany
Directed by Kilian Armando Friedrich, Ann-Kathrin Jahn, Jonas Kleinalstede, Schnekenbühl Katharina, Paula Tschira
Edgy lives in a world of blocks, but somehow doesn’t seem to fit.
In the Studio
The vibes are immaculate in the studio with Farah. We will be painting mini magnet canvases that can be displayed proudly. Pride themed designs will be provided, no prior art experience necessary!
Special thanks to DRIFF in a Jiff, RBC and Tourism Relief Fund for their support with this event.
Join us for Emerging Visions, the art exhibition of Durham College’s Fine Arts Advanced students. We are excited for this new Exhibition showcasing their thesis collection. Downstairs on the lower level, DRIFF in a Jiff in the Lookout, and an open art activity in the Art Studio with Farah. Starapples Restaurant is popping up in the lobby and will be dishing out delicious eats for sale. We will also be featuring performances by Delon Om and HADDIX.
Timeline of Events
7:00 – Doors Open
7:15 – Drop-in Studio Activity (Education Studio, Level 1)
7:15 – DRIFF in a Jiff Film Screening + Director Q&A (Lookout, Level 1)
7:25 – Opening Remarks and Welcome (Isabel Gallery, Level 3)
7:30 – Performance by Delon Om (Isabel Gallery, Level 3)
8:15 – Exhibition Opening Remarks with Sean McQuay (Durham College) and Hannah Keating (RMG) (Gallery A, Level 1)
8:20 – DRIFF in a Jiff Film Screening + Director Q&A (Lookout, Level 1)
8:40 – Performance by HADDIX (Isabel Gallery, Level 3)
Born and raised in Pickering, Ontario, Canadian singer/songwriter Delon Om is a former contestant on Canadian Idol. After co-writing one song with Juno award-winning producer Sheldon Moore, Om was catapulted to instant stardom when Virgin Radio 99.9 (CKFM Toronto, Canada) welcomed the single “Superstar” into rotation. “Superstar” hit the airwaves in 2016 and it didn’t take long for the record labels to take heed of this: he was courted by both Sony and Ultra Records. After signing with Ultra Records, Om collaborated with Alex Gaudino, a prolific DJ in the global community. In 2018, he was invited to perform at the 13th Annual Caribbean Hall of Fame Awards. His single “What We Guh Do Now?” (Featuring Juno-nominated artist Trinity Chris) held the #1 spot on various radio charts in Jamaica for 3 months. Another one of his singles, “Someone Special to Me”, was featured in the critically acclaimed documentary “This is for Toronto”. In 2021, Om teamed up with two-time Canadian Latin Award winner BenAnthony LaVoz and Latin Grammy winner Sensei Musica to release “The Gentleman & Scholar”, which was nominated for three Canadian Latin Awards. Om has recently worked with Juno-nominated producer T.J. Habibi on his critically acclaimed solo album “Theatre of Cruelty”, which won two OMAs in 2022 for “Best Emerging Artist” and “Best Music Video.” Om is currently signed to Sony Music and is working on new music for MTV, some of which will be featured in shows like Catfish, Teen Mom and the reboot of Jersey Shore.
HADDIX is a high energy pop-rock artist from Toronto Ontario. After releasing music written aside Grammy nominated songwriters in Nashville TN, HADDIX launched her first live shows in 2022, debuting at NXNE ’22! Since then she has taken her show on the road with her incredible band, opening for Juno nominated talent and gaining attention in the Canadian music scene. Her 6 singles released to date explore themes of love, empowerment and self confidence. Being apart of the 2+LGBTQ1A community, she hopes that her music resonates with all music lovers and that everyone can see a piece of themselves in her music. Simply put – be ready to see one hell of a show!
DRIFF in a Jiff will be downstairs in the lookout with film screenings at 7:30PM. The filmmakers will be on site to answer questions.
He Comes at Night (10 mins) Directed by Joseph Covello Produced by Krystle Ferdinand
On a stormy night, an anxious eight-year-old from a fractured home wakes up to the terrible realization that the monster under her bed may be real.
Join Farah in the studio to decorate a mini planter pot! Springtime designs and colour choices are available to get the creativity flowing. No prior arts experience necessary!
Special thanks to Starapples, RBC Foundation’s Emerging Artist Project, and DRIFF in a Jiff for their support with this event.
We are so excited to present two new exhibitions at the RMG: Piecework and Brigitte Sampogna’s, Nowhere. No, Where? Now here. Join us at 6pm to help us celebrate the work of 11 incredible artists.
Hangama Amiri, Woman Before A Mirror, Muslin, cotton, polyester, dyed fabric, nylon tulle, velvet, chiffon, silk, sued, and found fabrics, 73” x 53.5”, 2022. Courtesy of the artist and T293 Gallery.
We are so excited to celebrate the opening of two new exhibitions at the RMG!
Using the materiality of quilt making as a metaphor for how the fabric of the world holds together, Piecework is an exhibition that brings together a group of contemporary artists who use textiles and assemblage as world-building tools.
Nowhere. No, where? Now here. is an exhibition by RBC Emerging Artist in Residence Brigitte Sampogna, which uses a laundry line as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of self-discovery and was produced during her winter residency at the RMG.
Artists from both exhibitions will be with us on Friday to share their works and ideas with us.
The party continues with a guided studio activity, film screenings with DRIFF in a Jiff, and a spellbinding musical performance by Mimi O’Bonsawin.
DRIFF in a Jiff will be downstairs in the lookout with film screenings at 7:30PM. The filmmakers will be on site to answer questions.
The Test (11 mins)
Directed by Martin Baena
Written/Produced by Noah R. Taylor
An eccentric driving examiner takes advantage of a young man trying to get his licence.
On the Fence (6.5 mins)
Directed by Paula Ner Dormiendo
This short, thoughtful film presents several intertwined conversations with a group of multicultural individuals and their struggle with identity.
Drop in to the education studio between 7:00 and 8:30 to participate in a creative activity for all ages that asks: What does comfort mean to you? Inspired by our new exhibition, Piecework, this activity invites you to fill paper quilt pieces with patterns that express your own personal interpretation of comfort. All of the pieces will be added to a quilted mural on the studio wall as an expression of community and creativity.
Mimi O’Bonsawin is a contemporary roots singer-songwriter from Northeastern Ontario. Through her rhythm and story-driven songs, Mimi embraces the beauty of the land, all the while yielding to her Franco-Ontarian and Abenaki roots. In her music you will find sounds from the forest, uplifting melodies and introspective lyrics weaved with pop sensitivities and acoustic instruments. The layers of percussion and surprising harmonies make you feel the music rather than just hear it. Mimi will be performing from her new album: Willow.
Special thanks to DRIFF in a Jiff and RBC for their support with this event.
Join us for an evening with Black Lit Durham and Desarae Dee!
Welcome back to our RMG Fridays for 2023! We will be celebrating an evening of Poetry! With an introduction from Kesha Christie, will feature 3 unique Poets for your heart and Soul. Speaking of Heart and Soul, we have the beautiful Desarae Dee back for a solo performance! DRIFF is also onsite to deliver a double feature of Iranian Films, Boiled Tea and enigmatic, Identibye.
7 PM – Doors open
7:15 PM – DRIFF Film Screening in the Lookout
7:30 PM – Introduction by Kesha Christie and poet performances
8:30 PM – DRIFF Film Screening in the Lookout
8:45 PM – Desarae Dee performance
Kesha Christie is a dynamic storyteller and speaker. She connects people and culture through African and Caribbean folktales and stories that hook and ignite the imagination. She has shared stories with listeners in the Caribbean, the US, India and across Canada. Performing in schools, libraries, festivals, and community, corporate and special events. She has a weekly podcast called Walk Good and a YouTube channel under Talkin’ Tales, which amplify the power of stories.
Kesha is board member of the Storytellers of Canada, and founder of an annual storyteller event, which celebrates the oral tradition and showcases local entrepreneurs in the community. For more information visit www.talkintales.ca.
Judith Shaw Judith Shaw is a poet and a member of the Durham Storytellers. She is the author of a children’s book “My Grandmother Said Art Is Everywhere”. Judith was born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised by her Grandma Wawa. Judith believes grandparents are wise and special, and that they should be loved, honoured and respected. Judith works as a visiting home Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), but also finds delight tapping into her artistic abilities. She enjoys daydreaming and believes art arrives from the ability to dream and from the freeing of our imagination.
Shakkoi aka Need Some Koi Shakkoi aka Need Some Koi is a multi talented creative excelling in dance instruction and spoken word poetry. After performing as a dancer for six years, she is now focusing on making sure the world hears why they too Need Some Koi through her speaking, hosting and comedy appearances. Floetry Fitness, her business that focuses on creating spaces for movement and poetry, has been seen on Breakfast Television’s Movin in the Mornings, as well as Nia Centre, Black Women in Motion and the City of Pickering. With plenty of experiences to share, there is no doubt that everyone needs some Koi in their lives!
Desarae Dee Desarae Dee is a Canadian Instrumental Fusion Artist, Multi-Instrumentalist and Producer who has made significant waves in the Canadian music industry with her unique and unconventional playing style since 2014. Known as “Toronto’s Queen of Vibes,” her passionate and meaningful sound combines a unique mixture of faith, soul, vulnerability and divine balance. 8 years into her life as a music artist, she has established herself as a genre-bending and boundary-pushing artist. She has an extensive resume that includes an abundance of music releases, in addition to regional touring, features on Spotify’s Fresh Finds Jazz, NPR Music’s Jazz Night: On The List and Jazz Night Staff’s Holiday Faves playlists, national and international media and radio coverage and a Top 100 finish in the 2022 CBC Music Searchlight competition. In addition to her numerous musical accolades, Desarae was one of five recipients of the 2022 SiriusXM Black Canadian Awards powered by the SOCAN Foundation. As someone who never saw herself represented in the entertainment industry, Desarae has blazed a trail of authenticity and genre exploration while continuing to break barriers in the industry and forge a path for current and future Black Women Musicians.
Downstairs in the Lookout
Join DRIFF downstairs in the Lookout for two short films.
Screenings repeat at 7:15pm and 8:30pm.
Identibye (15 mins) (Persian with English subtitles) Winner of multiple awards internationally, including Best International Short at DRIFF 2022 Director: Sajjad Shahhatami Without a single word being uttered by the protagonist, the actor and director draw us into a struggle with identity few of us can imagine.
Boiled Tea (15 mins) (Persian with English subtitles) The family is getting ready to celebrate Samaneh’s birthday, but a pack of tea changes everything!
Special thanks to DRIFF in a Jiff for their support with this event.
The RMG reserves the right to cancel this event due to circumstances beyond RMG’s control or not reasonably anticipated, including but not limited, to weather, or inability of Facility to host Event.
Coming from Toronto? We have organized a bus to bring you to and from the opening! Pick up will be in front of OCADU at 100 McCaul St at 12:30PM. The bus will leave the RMG at 3:45PM to return to OCADU by 5PM.
On November 26, we are celebrating two new exhibitions at the RMG:
Powerful Glow Jordan Bennett, Patricia Deadman, Ursula Johnson, Mike MacDonald, Peter Morin, Luke Parnell, Archer Pechawis, Anne Riley, Fallon Simard, Becca Taylor, Art Wilson and T’uy’t’tanat-Cease Wyss November 26, 2022 – April 9, 2023 Curated by Lisa Myers
If we think of land and waterways as readable with a range that is fluid and ever changing, living and legible, then we can see how one’s understanding of land grows over long periods of time. Gathered around the medicine and butterfly artworks by the late Mi’kmaw artist Mike MacDonald, this exhibition brings together artists whose works are rooted in and stem from specific plant and land vocabularies that reflect place-based knowledge and nuanced perspectives of medicine.
Loose Parts sophia bartholomew, Akash Inbakumar, Justin Mezzapelli November 19th, 2022 – February 19th, 2023 Curated by Hannah Keating
Loose Parts encourages viewers to think about the intimate connection between grief, world building, and kinship. When things fall apart or their edges fray, we can see the component parts more clearly. Instinctively, especially in grief, we try to hold on, but it’s in loosening our grip and letting the pieces scatter that we find ourselves and discover tools for building new worlds. The artists in Loose Parts embrace provisional and in-between spaces, looking to ancient mythologies, dreamed-up futures, and personal stories of becoming for wisdom and ways forward.
Kazuo Nakamura was a founding member of Painters Eleven (1953-60), Ontario’s first abstract art collective. Although sharing in the other members’ use of abstraction, Nakamura’s work was distinguished within the group by his use of more subdued brushstrokes, simpler structures and monochromatic palette. Drawing primarily from the RMG’s permanent collection, this exhibition pulls together works that reflect the scope of Nakamura’s artistic career and his constant search for truth and understanding of the world around him.
The Ties That Bind October 8th, 2022 – August 20th, 2023 Curated by Sonya Jones
Feeling connected is a fundamental psychological need. In nature, ecosystems depend on interactions and connections in order to thrive. Similarly, humans flourish through connections that are physical, emotional, and social. After two years of feeling disconnected, this exhibition pulls together artwork that reflects on the different ways we seek connections, whether through relationships, finding peace and perspective in nature, or exploring shared histories.
Also on view:
The Beyond Within Annie MacDonell September 24, 2022 – February 12, 2023
Complete Freedom Abstract artworks from our permanent collection December 11th, 2021 – March 5th, 2023
Come Together Photographs from the Thomas Bouckley Collection June 18, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Join us for an evening of storytelling! Beginning with a behind the scenes artist talk of The Sire of Sires with Oshawa-born artist Jordan Elliot Prosser, the evening will continue with performances by the Durham Storytellers and violinist and fiddler David Shewchuk. DRIFF is also onsite to deliver a double feature and Q&A with filmmaker Patrick Weiers.
7:00 – Doors Open 7:15-8:00 – Artist Talk with RBC Emerging Artist in Residence Jordan Elliot Prosser 8:00-8:30 – Performances by Durham Storytellers
Micki Beck – Apsley, ON Micki is a storytelling elder, starting her storytelling journey some 60 years ago. Over the years, she has worked as an individual, and in groups through schools and universities to the theatre stage and television studio.
Kesha Christie – Ajax, ON Kesha Christie is an animated storyteller who ignites the imaginations and carries you on an amazing journey from tale to intriguing tale. She tells Anansi stories, African Folklore, Aesop Fables, Historical and original tales.
Angelica Ottewille – Havelock, ON Angelica Ottewill is a classically trained harpist and vocalist, who combines the art of storytelling with music. Her repertoire includes medieval, Celtic and historical stories, as well as folktales from many cultures.
8:30-9:15 – Performance by David Shewchuk 9:15-9:45 – Performances by Durham Storytellers
Judith Shaw – Oshawa, ON Judith believes that there is magic in words that are spoken, either through poetry or storytelling. She feels the words capture her heart; ignites a desire to combine words of her own; and share her creations openly with others. Judith finds her journey into storytelling… enchanting!
Peter Dowse – Ajax, ON Peter is now branching out, using his speaking skills from Toastmasters and applying them to his new passion of storytelling. He enjoys researching historical events and presents them in a storytelling format, personalizing the characters to add impact to the story.
Dianne Chandler – Port Perry, ON Dianne has been weaving words of story magic, myth and mystery for all ages for many years. She performs a repertoire of global folk/fairy literary tales, and special seasonal programs with drama, passion, sensitivity and humour, often in costume.
Kathleen Smyth – Bowmanville, ON Kathleen has been telling stories most of her life, as both a writer and a storyteller. She enjoys recanting stories about historical characters, especially strong women. Kathleen enjoys telling personal stories that amuse, inform, and inspire. And she likes to help others embrace the stories within them.
Downstairs in the Lookout
Join DRIFF downstairs in the Lookout for two short films that explore youthful experiences through two different lenses. Patrick Weiers will be present to share behind-the-scenes stories and answer questions from the audience.
Screenings and Q&A will repeat at 7:15pm, 8:00pm, and 9:00pm.
The Beach Raiders (8 mins) Directed by Tyson Breuer This story is a fun escape to end-of-summer shenanigans. Mel and James try to keep the fun alive for one more night, knowing this life won’t last.
i hope they remember my name (11 mins) Directed by Patrick Weiers Struggling with depression, a famous vlogger travels to Asia and documents his search for dopamine.
Durham Storytellers is an enthusiastic group that aims to keep oral storytelling alive, promote an awareness of storytelling and illustrate how stories fit into today’s society. They convey each story without books or notes, and are considered part of the performing arts.
Join our summer artist in residence in Gallery A for an artist talk that accompanies his solo exhibition The Sire of Sires. Featuring surprising ties between 19th century poetry, Russian ballet, and Oshawa’s own Northern Dancer, you’ll learn more about Jordan’s experience as an artist in residence and his exciting installation and video work, which explores the relationship between reproduction, legacy, and identity.
Dave Shewchuk is a Canadian violinist/fiddler who has performed as a soloist from Ontario to Vancouver and everywhere in between, winning the hearts of audiences with stunning creativity and originality. He performs original compositions and popular favourites in various musical styles – classical, jazz, folk, rock, and more – and has performed with many orchestras in Canada and the UK including The Hamilton Symphony, The Ontario Philharmonic, The National Academy Orchestra, The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, The Arch Sinfonia and The London Graduate Orchestra, just to name a few.
Special thanks to DRIFF in a Jiff and Canada Council and the Arts Reopening Fund for their support with this event. We acknowledge the financial support of Canada’s private radio broadcasters.
From the collaborators of Durham Indigenous Voices, the four-part Anti-Indigenous Racism Panel Series in 2021, we are joining as a collective again for a one-night, in-person event!
We invite you to come celebrate the creativity of the local Indigenous community through music, poetry, and dance performances.
Presented in partnership with the Durham Region, Durham Public Libraries, Durham College, Durham College Student Association, Ontario Tech University, and The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, with support from the Durham District School Board and the Durham Catholic District School Board.
Light refreshments from local Indigenous caterers will be provided for this free, drop-in event. Find us on Facebook here.
Aqua Nibii Waawaaskone embodies a beautiful mixture of Anishnaabe/Ojibwe, Irish, and French heritage. They are an artist and activist in their community Tkaronto, while running their Indigenous Arts business Aqua Music. They lead hand drum circles, ceremonies, workshops, and perform their beautiful medicine music solo and with their band, Red Rhythm & Blues, where they are the creator, lead vocalist, and drummer. Aqua thoughtfully crafts each song from their life experience as an IndigiQueer person of mixed ancestry.
Sarah Lewis is an Anishnaabe Kwe (Ojibwe/Cree) spoken word artist, activist, and mother from Curve Lake First Nation, Ontario. She is currently Peterborough’s first Poet Laureate. She has been featured on Global News, CBC radio, CBC Arts’ ongoing video series: Poetic License. She has also recently been published in the poetry anthologies: ‘The Condor and the Eagle Meet’ as well as ‘A Manor of Words’. Her poetry uncovers the ongoing effects of colonization but more importantly, how Indigenous communities are reclaiming their identities, culture, strength and sovereignty. She also explores love, women empowerment, friendship, and her connection to Mother Earth.
Auriele Diotte has been a Métis Jigger for over 10 years. She learned to jig through the Oshawa Durham Métis Council and became part of their dance troupe, The Olivine Bousquet Métis Dancers, soon after. She has enjoyed many years of learning about her Métis heritage through dance as well as teaching others through jigging with some fancy footwork. As of August 2021, Auriele became the new owner and artistic director of the Fairytale Factory, a children’s entertainment company at which she was a performer for three years prior. As a graduate of Theatre Performance, she has been implementing the skills of storytelling, audience experience, and authenticity in every area of her life.
Virginia Barter is a Toronto based Métis/Cree historical writer, storyteller, musician and filmmaker. She is a passionate advocate of Métis culture and history. As a multi-disciplinary artist, Virginia is always seeking to discover new paths to truth and reconciliation through music, visual arts, language and poetry. She is a cultural advisor and knowledge keeper for the Toronto and York Region Métis Council, an Art Educator at the Art Gallery of Ontario, and an Indigenous Education Partner with the Toronto District School Board. As a filmmaker and writer, Virginia produces projects with strong Indigenous perspectives of land and place. Most notably, she was Producer and Host of the television series, URBAN ABORIGINAL, which highlighted the rich and culturally diverse contributions that Indigenous people bring to life in the City of Toronto.
Jordan Mowat is a Michi Saagiig Ojibwe Powwow & Round Dance singer/composer as well as a contemporary music artist from Alderville First Nation, ON, Canada. Over the past 15+ years, he has travelled extensively across Turtle Island on the powwow trail and currently sings with notable drum group Bear Creek Singers. Through this experience, he wanted to take a big step and start sharing his round dance songs on YouTube for the sole purpose of “sharing the gift of song.” Amongst his travels he has also been able to share and perform his contemporary music and his since released tracks on most digital platforms under the name My Friend The Moon. Aside from his musical journey and cultural experiences, Jordan is an Indigenous Graduation Coach with the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board. Through advocation, mentorship, and both academic/mental health support; his goal is to help Indigenous youth realize their full potential, that they have a purpose, and to always be proud of who they are.
Mary Kelly is from the Ojibways of Onigaming and is a citizen of the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty Number Three. She is lynx clan. She is a grandmother, avid reader, and poet. Mary is a survivor of St. Margaret’s Indian Residential School in Fort Frances, Ontario. She is fluent in the Anishinaabe and English languages. “You tore me down and left me broken, but the blood that flows through me is all I needed to rise up and fight for myself, my culture, my life.”
Born on a First Nations Reserve in central Ontario, Cale Crowe was fueled on music from the time he had a heartbeat. Performing using an acoustic guitar, an electronic drum pad, and a loop station pedal, Cale has performed at bars, theatres, and festivals from Sydney, Nova Scotia to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Cale describes the songs that make up his discography as chapters of his life – not necessarily told in order, but made to encapsulate moments of his life and the lives of those closest to him. Cale only hopes to continue to connect with people and uplift them with his music. Wherever life takes him, Cale will keep telling his story behind the strings of an acoustic guitar and a microphone.
The RMG is wheelchair accessible. ASL Interpretation can be arranged upon request. Please contact Erin Szikora at [email protected] to submit an interpretation request by October 20, 2022. All efforts will be made to fill a request, but if an Interpreter cannot be secured, we will let you know before the event takes place.
The RMG strives to make our building, collections, exhibitions, and programs accessible to people of all abilities. If there are other ways we can support your participation, please reach out to Erin at [email protected]. We welcome your feedback.