On February 9, the Museum welcomed more than 100 guests to a Panel Discussion How Far We’ve Come: Reflections on the Resonance of Indigenous Art from the 1980s. Joining moderator Rhéanne Chartrand, Aboriginal Curatorial Resident at McMaster Museum of Art, were Gerald McMaster and Richard William Hill. Tom Hill sent his regrets.

We are very pleased to now be able to share with you an audio recording of that lively and informative discussion (recorded by AVTEK Productions), augmented where possible by images of specific works of art being discussed. Extended Q&A following the formal part of the panel discussion is not included here.

The event was presented as a complement to the exhibition Unapologetic: Acts of Survivance which is on view at the Museum until March 25, 2017.

PANEL SUMMARY

Rheanne Chartrand introduces the Panel – From start to 8 minute mark.

Moderator’s Questions follow:

1. 8:12 min
In what way has Indigenous artistic practice evolved since the 1980s? What sets this decade apart from those before and after it?
(Gerald McMaster answers first)

2. 26:55 min
From your experience working on past commemorations, what were the motivating factors that caused Indigenous artists to participate and/or not participate?
What position can and should Indigenous artists now take in relation to Canada 150?

3. 1:02:25 min
What was it like as an Indigenous artist and Curator in the 1980s or growing up in the 80s around this art? What obstacles did you face in growing your artistic or curatorial practice?
Who inspired your practice?

4. 1:14:36 min
In reflecting on all that Indigenous artists have achieved since the 1980s – both as individuals and collectively – where do you see current discourse on Indigenous art going? What is the discipline’s future trajectory?