The Stories We Belong To

Open Space and Tah’lum Indigenous Artists Collective are excited to launch the 2022 Indigenous Emerging Artists Program (IEAP) with the theme “The Stories We Belong To.”

Emerging artists aged 15 - 30, whose Indigenous ancestry comes from anywhere in the world, are offered the opportunity to tell their stories in a supportive and culturally safe environment. This free and hands-on program is designed to allow participants the space to explore a wide range of artistic mediums and practices. Mentors include Open Space’s Curator, Indigenous & Contemporary Art, Eli Hirtle, Elder-in-Residence Gerry Ambers, Elder Support Tyrone Elliott, Tah’lum Indigenous Artists Collective Administrator Jesse Campbell, and a group of local and regional Indigenous artists.

The program will take place from January 23rd - Oct. 23 2022. Participants will meet every second Sunday afternoon for workshops, field trips, artist talks and studio sessions. An exhibition will conclude the program, with the participants and community joining together for a feast and public opening at Open Space on Saturday, Nov. 6th. 

Participants are encouraged to attend as many sessions as possible, but we will prioritize accessibility and flexibility, understanding that other commitments can prevent people from coming to every scheduled workshop day. Meals will be provided at each session and bus tickets will be offered for those that require them.