This entry level course introduces Indigenous cosmologies, peoples and knowledge paradigms through the lens of contemporary Indigenous artists and their cultural expressions. Situated within a basket of Indigenous values, this curriculum privileges Indigenous presence and the gifts that Indigenous cultures have contributed and continue to contribute to the social, ecological, cultural and political fabric of our country. Through thematic based lessons, presentations, interviews, readings and films, we will track important moments and impacts in Indigenous-settler relations to begin to come to an understanding. A central tenet of this course is the importance of understanding the spirit of place and the ways in which place informs us as artists, designers, guests and community members. By fore-fronting place and the land, we are situated as teachers and learners, in a reciprocal, responsible relationship with the Indigenous ethos of “all my relations.”
- Teacher: Mimi Gellman