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

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Taking inspiration from Toby Rabinowitz’s exhibition, A World Within A World, visitors can choose an animal silhouette provided by us and decorate it with brightly-coloured patterns using various shapes and materials.

Toby’s artwork is full of bright, imagined worlds with magical creatures and friends playing together. She says her work is for kids and happy adults – make sure you stop in to look for yourself in the art gallery on level 4.

What magical creature will you create?

Drop-in program – no registration is required.

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Program

Celebrating biodiversity! Get Hands on with our Province’s plants, animals and wild spaces at The Rooms with Nature NL!

Nature Nook is a monthly hands-on session to interact with real specimens like seal pelts, skulls, whale baleen, antlers, moose fur, and a variety of rocks and minerals. Join us to learn more about nature and ask our volunteers all your questions about Newfoundland and Labrador’s wildlife!

Included with cost of admission. Free for Rooms members.

2:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Tour

Beaumont-Hamel and the Trail of the Caribou

In this exhibition, find out about the impacts of the First World War on Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and how events overseas dramatically altered our lives at home.

Each tour is approximately 30 – 40 minutes and is included in the cost of admission. Free for Rooms members.