Art For Joys Sake: Panel Discussion


Date: Nov 21
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Where: Theatre
Talk

Join guest curator and host, Jenelle Duval for an engaging conversation with panelists, Jordan Bennett, Samaqani Cocahq, Kayla Stride, and Nelson White.

The featured artists will reflect on their work as part of Duval’s exhibition, Tekweywinen tel weljesultiek (Be with us in our Joy), a uniquely interactive and play-based experience that showcases the works of seven Indigenous artists based in Wabanaki*—inviting you to explore their (and your) individual interpretations of joy.

For generations, Wabanaki artists have thrived and are known to be resilient and strong. Yet, it's not only their endurance that sustains them—laughter, spirit, and humour have been vital to their artmaking.

This exhibition is a celebration of that vibrant spirit, offering a space to uplift each other and collectively embrace the joy inherent in Indigenous culture. What brings joy to your inner child? How can we spark curiosity, invite wonder, and see the world with fresh eyes and an imaginative mind?

*Wabanaki, translated as “People of the First Light” or “Dawnland,” includes five nations: the Mi'kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, and Abenaki. The region stretches from parts of Newfoundland to the Maritime provinces, Maine, and Quebec.

This is a free event but a ticket is required. Pelase reserve your free ticket online or by calling (709)757-8090. 

This program is in partnership with First Light in celebration of Spirit Song.

Events & Programs

10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Playdate

Join us for a delightful morning at The Rooms!
Bring your little ones to our enchanting Harbour View Room for unguided playtime surrounded by an array of toys and books tailored for infants and toddlers aged 0 to 4.

No prior registration is necessary; simply pay your admission at The Rooms front desk and drop in anytime between 10:30 am and 12:00 pm! Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Please note that caregivers must accompany their children throughout the session. While our program room can accommodate up to 20 adults with their little ones, if it reaches capacity, we kindly ask caregivers to momentarily step back to make room for others to join in the fun.

The Playdate is included in the cost of admission. Free for Rooms Members.

With support from Thomas and Susan (Kent) Foran Family Foundation.

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Craft at Risk

Join craftsperson and scholar Christian Dauble for a three-hour workshop all about weaving!

Learn about the history of weaving in Newfoundland and Labrador and around the world. Walk through the basic techniques of weaving and get hands-on experience trying out various types of looms and techniques. Leave with a new perspective on the fabric that surrounds us every day and the importance of textile crafts in our community. Weaving, the craft or action of forming fabric by interlacing threads, was moved from Endangered in 2021 to Currently Viable on the 2024 Craft at Risk List.

Christian Dauble, an avid knitter, became enamoured with weaving in 2019 and decided to pursue it further. They built a small loom from a canvas frame where they began to practice basic tapestry weaving. Christian was a weaving Apprentice with Heritage NL’s Mentor-Apprentice Program.

Cost: $40 plus HST. 10% discount for Rooms members. All materials included. Register online!

Presented in partnership with Heritage NL.

2:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Step inside the story as artist Marlene Creates brings Matthew-Robin Nye’s immersive installation, Good Night Moon: a Rhythm, a Tempo to life!

Through poetry and performance, Marlene invites audience members, especially children, to feel the sights and sounds around them in this one-of-a-kind, interactive experience.

Perfect for families and adults of all ages!

This is a free program but a ticket is required. Limited tickets due to space.