Anya M. Wassenberg's Blog: Art & Culture Maven, page 74
September 26, 2017
Shortlist for CODE’s 2017 Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Literature Announced
From a media release:
Shortlist for CODE’s 2017 Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Literature Announced
A literary award and literacy initiative like no other
Ottawa, September 24, 2017 — CODE is proud to announce the shortlist for its 5th annual Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis for Young Adult Literature. Established by CODE—a Canadian charitable organization that has been advancing literacy and learning for over 55 years—with the generous support of William (Bill) Burt and the Literary Prizes Foundation, the award recognizes excellent, engaging and culturally-relevant books in English for youth that are written, illustrated and/or translated by First Nations, Inuit and Métis creators.
This year’s shortlisted titles were selected by a peer assessment committee administered by CODE’s partner, the Canada Council for the Arts. In alphabetical order by title, they are:
The Break, by Katherena Vermette, published by House of Anansi PressThe Mask That Sang by Susan Currie, published by Second Story PressThose Who Run in the Sky by Aviaq Johnston, (Illustrated by Toma Feizo Gas), published by Inhabit Media “CODE is delighted to once again recognize works of excellence by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis creators,” said CODE Executive Director, Scott Walter. “Katherena Vemette’s beautifully and powerfully written book captures the love and struggles between family members in a modern indigenous community, Susan Currie weaves themes of class, race, culture, family, and friendship into an outstanding story, and Aviaq Johnston takes us on a young Inuit hero’s journey to spiritual and physical strength as he makes his way through the Arctic wilderness. These are rich, compelling stories that CODE is proud to see honoured, but even more satisfying is the knowledge that through our guaranteed purchase they will be made all the more accessible to indigenous youth, right across the nation.”
The winner and the honour books will be announced on Thursday, November 23, 2017, at an awards ceremony to be held in Edmonton, Alberta. The ceremony will take place at the Amiskwaciy Academy and emceed by Aaron Paquette and CBC’s Shelagh Rogers.
This year, the creator of the winning book (author, translator, or graphic novel illustrator) will be awarded $12,000. Each of the other titles will be named an honour book, and the creator of each honour book will be awarded $2,000.
In addition, publishers of the winning and honour book titles will each be granted a guaranteed purchase of a minimum of 2,500 copies, which will ensure that First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth across Canada will have access to the books through their schools, libraries, Friendship Centres and other organizations engaging indigenous youth in education. Last year’s winning titles were distributed to more than 800 locations across the country.
The award is the result of a close collaboration between CODE and the Assembly of First Nations, the Métis National Council, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the National Association of Friendship Centres, the Association of Canadian Publishers, the Canada Council for the Arts, GoodMinds and Frontier College.
CODE’s Burt Award is a global readership initiative and is also currently running in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and the Caribbean.
For further details on the Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Literature, please visit https://code.ngo/burt-award-canada
Shortlist for CODE’s 2017 Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Literature Announced
A literary award and literacy initiative like no other
Ottawa, September 24, 2017 — CODE is proud to announce the shortlist for its 5th annual Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis for Young Adult Literature. Established by CODE—a Canadian charitable organization that has been advancing literacy and learning for over 55 years—with the generous support of William (Bill) Burt and the Literary Prizes Foundation, the award recognizes excellent, engaging and culturally-relevant books in English for youth that are written, illustrated and/or translated by First Nations, Inuit and Métis creators.
This year’s shortlisted titles were selected by a peer assessment committee administered by CODE’s partner, the Canada Council for the Arts. In alphabetical order by title, they are:The Break, by Katherena Vermette, published by House of Anansi PressThe Mask That Sang by Susan Currie, published by Second Story PressThose Who Run in the Sky by Aviaq Johnston, (Illustrated by Toma Feizo Gas), published by Inhabit Media “CODE is delighted to once again recognize works of excellence by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis creators,” said CODE Executive Director, Scott Walter. “Katherena Vemette’s beautifully and powerfully written book captures the love and struggles between family members in a modern indigenous community, Susan Currie weaves themes of class, race, culture, family, and friendship into an outstanding story, and Aviaq Johnston takes us on a young Inuit hero’s journey to spiritual and physical strength as he makes his way through the Arctic wilderness. These are rich, compelling stories that CODE is proud to see honoured, but even more satisfying is the knowledge that through our guaranteed purchase they will be made all the more accessible to indigenous youth, right across the nation.”
The winner and the honour books will be announced on Thursday, November 23, 2017, at an awards ceremony to be held in Edmonton, Alberta. The ceremony will take place at the Amiskwaciy Academy and emceed by Aaron Paquette and CBC’s Shelagh Rogers.
This year, the creator of the winning book (author, translator, or graphic novel illustrator) will be awarded $12,000. Each of the other titles will be named an honour book, and the creator of each honour book will be awarded $2,000.
In addition, publishers of the winning and honour book titles will each be granted a guaranteed purchase of a minimum of 2,500 copies, which will ensure that First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth across Canada will have access to the books through their schools, libraries, Friendship Centres and other organizations engaging indigenous youth in education. Last year’s winning titles were distributed to more than 800 locations across the country.The award is the result of a close collaboration between CODE and the Assembly of First Nations, the Métis National Council, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the National Association of Friendship Centres, the Association of Canadian Publishers, the Canada Council for the Arts, GoodMinds and Frontier College.
CODE’s Burt Award is a global readership initiative and is also currently running in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and the Caribbean.
For further details on the Burt Award for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Literature, please visit https://code.ngo/burt-award-canada
September 25, 2017
Rock Review: Kris Heaton Band - World Gone Mad (Independent, June 1, 2017)
Rock Review:
Kris Heaton Band - World Gone Mad
(Independent, June 1, 2017)
• Listen on Spotify
• Buy at CDBaby
Rock and roll and social commentary mix in melodic fashion on this release, the seventh by industry veteran Kris Heaton. He's got a classic rock sound that he comes by honestly, having been tearing it up in bands since high school in the late 1970s.
Don't Let The Bullets Fly is urgent and driving. Kris has a great rock voice - all growl, edge, and expression. The band has been compared to Bruce Springsteen in its blue collar ethos, but I'd add a dash of glam rock in its originality and vocals that can veer into an operatic pop territory - think a toned down Ian Astbury.
A long timer in the music biz, Kris has hit the national charts 4 times with his releases. He has won the Miller High Life Rock To Riches Award as well as numerous Akademia Music Awards including Best Rock Song 2017 for Who Let The Bullets Fly. His Youtube vids sometimes reach a million views or more. He's even played with the Brandenburg Germany State Symphony Orchestra and a choir on a European tour. Kris has toured throughout the country and now makes his home in Conneticut.
His sound is well defined within the rock category, with the subgenres mixed and mashed up to produce a range and a variety of modes. I Want You is a power ballad, lit up by some virtuosic guitar licks and an anthemic chorus that sticks in your head.
When The Sun Goes Down is a radio friendly ballad. I'll be loving you...when the sun goes down. It's familiar territory, but handled with sincerity and a refreshing lack of bombast. The Moment adds a bit of a reggae-esque beat to a song about living in (the moment). The reggae/rock vibe works underneath Kris' raspy, urgent vocals. One Thin Line is almost a country gospel, with vocal harmonies that add to the effect - over a slow rock beat. Where The Wind Blows has a melodic mid-century pop feel, with his raspy voice adding an unexpected note.
It's an accomplished release from an industry vet.
Track Listing:
1 - Who Let the Bullets Fly
2 - World Gone Mad
3 - When We Danced
4 - Something New
5 - I Want You
6 - When the Sun Goes Down
7 - Drink to the Girls
8 - The Moment
9 - One Thin Line
10 - Where the Wind Blows
11 - Way of the World
12 - Better World
Keep up with the band:
http://krisheatonband.comhttps://www.facebook.com/pg/KrisHeatonBandhttps://www.youtube.com/user/KrisHeatonBand
Kris Heaton Band - World Gone Mad
(Independent, June 1, 2017)
• Listen on Spotify
• Buy at CDBaby
Rock and roll and social commentary mix in melodic fashion on this release, the seventh by industry veteran Kris Heaton. He's got a classic rock sound that he comes by honestly, having been tearing it up in bands since high school in the late 1970s.Don't Let The Bullets Fly is urgent and driving. Kris has a great rock voice - all growl, edge, and expression. The band has been compared to Bruce Springsteen in its blue collar ethos, but I'd add a dash of glam rock in its originality and vocals that can veer into an operatic pop territory - think a toned down Ian Astbury.
A long timer in the music biz, Kris has hit the national charts 4 times with his releases. He has won the Miller High Life Rock To Riches Award as well as numerous Akademia Music Awards including Best Rock Song 2017 for Who Let The Bullets Fly. His Youtube vids sometimes reach a million views or more. He's even played with the Brandenburg Germany State Symphony Orchestra and a choir on a European tour. Kris has toured throughout the country and now makes his home in Conneticut.
His sound is well defined within the rock category, with the subgenres mixed and mashed up to produce a range and a variety of modes. I Want You is a power ballad, lit up by some virtuosic guitar licks and an anthemic chorus that sticks in your head.
When The Sun Goes Down is a radio friendly ballad. I'll be loving you...when the sun goes down. It's familiar territory, but handled with sincerity and a refreshing lack of bombast. The Moment adds a bit of a reggae-esque beat to a song about living in (the moment). The reggae/rock vibe works underneath Kris' raspy, urgent vocals. One Thin Line is almost a country gospel, with vocal harmonies that add to the effect - over a slow rock beat. Where The Wind Blows has a melodic mid-century pop feel, with his raspy voice adding an unexpected note.It's an accomplished release from an industry vet.
Track Listing:1 - Who Let the Bullets Fly
2 - World Gone Mad
3 - When We Danced
4 - Something New
5 - I Want You
6 - When the Sun Goes Down
7 - Drink to the Girls
8 - The Moment
9 - One Thin Line
10 - Where the Wind Blows
11 - Way of the World
12 - Better World
Keep up with the band:
http://krisheatonband.comhttps://www.facebook.com/pg/KrisHeatonBandhttps://www.youtube.com/user/KrisHeatonBand
Review: Shrek Is Love, Vol 1: This Is My Swamp (Independent, February 2, 2017)
Review:
Shrek Is Love, Vol 1: This Is My Swamp
(Independent, February 2, 2017)
• Listen on Spotify
What happens when fandom and musicianship collide? In this case, the result is an inventive release from Shrek Is Love, a bi-coastal RnB/Jazz quartet with imagination and the chops to bring the concept to life. It's quirky and compelling music, bouncy and fun without sacrificing musical integrity.
How did this all come about? According to the band's material, after meeting in 2015 and playing the Remix to "Ignition" by R. Kelly at the Thelonious Monk Institute Room at UCLA, Michael Mayo, Jacob Mann, Nick Campbell and Christian Euman booked Shrek is Love's debut show at the Blue Whale. At the time of the booking they had not written any music; however, their love of Shrek spawned a legendary 2-hour, through composed tribute to the best animated movie of all time.
You don't really need to be a fan of Shrek to love the music. This Is My Swamp layers Michael Mayo's smooth, liquid RnB vocals over kinetic drumming and interesting chord changes that flow into and out of swells of intensity.
Fiona - appropriately enough - is slow and sexy.
Fiona, where are you
When the night comes?
Fiona, do you dream
Of the darkness in between?
If you've ever wondered whether animated movies were muse material for music, this is your answer.
Recent accolades include radio play on Ibero 90.9FM in Mexico City, KCSB 91.9 FM Santa Barbara, and they've been featured on Bandcamp Weekly. The bi-coastal unit, based in Los Angeles and NYC, plan on recording a follow up later in 2017.
Members:
Michael Mayo - Vocals; Jacob Mann - Keys; Nick Campbell - Bass; Christian Euman - Drums
Tracklisting:
1. Lord Farquaad
2. This is My Swamp
3. Fiona
Keep up with the band:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shrekislovemusicBandcamp: https://shrekislove.bandcamp.com/releases
Shrek Is Love, Vol 1: This Is My Swamp
(Independent, February 2, 2017)
• Listen on Spotify
What happens when fandom and musicianship collide? In this case, the result is an inventive release from Shrek Is Love, a bi-coastal RnB/Jazz quartet with imagination and the chops to bring the concept to life. It's quirky and compelling music, bouncy and fun without sacrificing musical integrity.
How did this all come about? According to the band's material, after meeting in 2015 and playing the Remix to "Ignition" by R. Kelly at the Thelonious Monk Institute Room at UCLA, Michael Mayo, Jacob Mann, Nick Campbell and Christian Euman booked Shrek is Love's debut show at the Blue Whale. At the time of the booking they had not written any music; however, their love of Shrek spawned a legendary 2-hour, through composed tribute to the best animated movie of all time.You don't really need to be a fan of Shrek to love the music. This Is My Swamp layers Michael Mayo's smooth, liquid RnB vocals over kinetic drumming and interesting chord changes that flow into and out of swells of intensity.
Fiona - appropriately enough - is slow and sexy.
Fiona, where are you
When the night comes?
Fiona, do you dream
Of the darkness in between?
If you've ever wondered whether animated movies were muse material for music, this is your answer.
Recent accolades include radio play on Ibero 90.9FM in Mexico City, KCSB 91.9 FM Santa Barbara, and they've been featured on Bandcamp Weekly. The bi-coastal unit, based in Los Angeles and NYC, plan on recording a follow up later in 2017.
Members:Michael Mayo - Vocals; Jacob Mann - Keys; Nick Campbell - Bass; Christian Euman - Drums
Tracklisting:
1. Lord Farquaad
2. This is My Swamp
3. Fiona
Keep up with the band:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shrekislovemusicBandcamp: https://shrekislove.bandcamp.com/releases
Direct From Brooklyn - Giant Flying Turtles - CD: Waltz To The World (Independent, September 23, 2017)
Recently Released:
Giant Flying Turtles - CD: Waltz To The World
(Independent, September 23, 2017)
• Stream and download the album online
Many bands bill themselves a genre defying or something similar, but it's not often completely true. Giant Flying Turtles, a quartet hailing from Brookylyn's indie scene, is the exception.
They have a full sound, with the keyboards and bass figuring prominently, along with guitar and a wide range of instrumentation, including the cello, fleshing out the sound.
Perhaps oddly, this is music that will appeal to oldsters and hipsters alike, fueled by really tight musicianship - in particular, Johnny Young's liquid fluency on the keyboard that offers many of the release's highlights. Tight, crisp, and inventive drumming by Jim Toscano is another part of their signature sound. Johnny Young is also the band's main vocalist, with a sound that ranges from rough edged rock to the pure tones of prog rock.
The songs cover a range of moods and sounds. Waltz To The World - which isn't actually a waltz, lol - is pop with a jazzy feel, lit up by a shimmering keyboard line and expressive vocals. One Of A Kind ventures into a classic rock mode, with a side journey into prog rock - and harmonies on the chorus that made me think I was listening to Yes for a few seconds.
Stay Out Late has a trippy feel that veers from jazz to campy pop, with a cool sycopated beat and a retro vibe that reminds me of the best of sixties pop. Train Song starts as a straight ahead rocker, veers into a glam rock kind of mode - a la Queen - with a jazzy beat. That's the kind of mash up you can expect from this talented bunch.
Most of the songs are upbeat and uptemp, Hold The Flag being a lovely exception. The music is appropriately elegiac and somber, with a military-style drum riff.
Hate and love
Light and dark
When all the world's in flames
With no ideas to spark
If our minds
Betray our hearts
Children are all born to lose
When there's nowhere they can hide
We could will hold the flag,
Until the lights go down...
Banjo is a surprise, a walk straight into country/bluegrass territory. As the first single, there are two versions of Waltz to the World on the release - the second moodier, jazzier than the lead track.
They may not be well known outside the Brooklyn indie scene as yet, but if there is any justice in the world, that will all change.
Recent accolades: Their song Raven Hair is featured in the festival favorite One Wall – Kings of Coney Island. Their song Keep My Dream Alive is the theme of the film Shining In The Dark which was nominated in The Moscow International Film Festival, and they were invited to perform it there.
Personnel:
Calvin Bennett - vocals, upright bass, 6- and 12-string guitars, cello; Johnny Young - vocals, piano, keyboards, acoustic and electric guitars; TJ Jordan - guitars, vocals; Jim Toscano - drums, percussion
Keep up with the band:
https://www.facebook.com/pg/GiantFlyingTurtlesBandhttps://twitter.com/GntFlyingTurtle
Giant Flying Turtles - CD: Waltz To The World
(Independent, September 23, 2017)
• Stream and download the album online
Many bands bill themselves a genre defying or something similar, but it's not often completely true. Giant Flying Turtles, a quartet hailing from Brookylyn's indie scene, is the exception.They have a full sound, with the keyboards and bass figuring prominently, along with guitar and a wide range of instrumentation, including the cello, fleshing out the sound.
Perhaps oddly, this is music that will appeal to oldsters and hipsters alike, fueled by really tight musicianship - in particular, Johnny Young's liquid fluency on the keyboard that offers many of the release's highlights. Tight, crisp, and inventive drumming by Jim Toscano is another part of their signature sound. Johnny Young is also the band's main vocalist, with a sound that ranges from rough edged rock to the pure tones of prog rock.
The songs cover a range of moods and sounds. Waltz To The World - which isn't actually a waltz, lol - is pop with a jazzy feel, lit up by a shimmering keyboard line and expressive vocals. One Of A Kind ventures into a classic rock mode, with a side journey into prog rock - and harmonies on the chorus that made me think I was listening to Yes for a few seconds.
Stay Out Late has a trippy feel that veers from jazz to campy pop, with a cool sycopated beat and a retro vibe that reminds me of the best of sixties pop. Train Song starts as a straight ahead rocker, veers into a glam rock kind of mode - a la Queen - with a jazzy beat. That's the kind of mash up you can expect from this talented bunch.
Most of the songs are upbeat and uptemp, Hold The Flag being a lovely exception. The music is appropriately elegiac and somber, with a military-style drum riff.Hate and love
Light and dark
When all the world's in flames
With no ideas to spark
If our minds
Betray our hearts
Children are all born to lose
When there's nowhere they can hide
We could will hold the flag,
Until the lights go down...
Banjo is a surprise, a walk straight into country/bluegrass territory. As the first single, there are two versions of Waltz to the World on the release - the second moodier, jazzier than the lead track.
They may not be well known outside the Brooklyn indie scene as yet, but if there is any justice in the world, that will all change.
Recent accolades: Their song Raven Hair is featured in the festival favorite One Wall – Kings of Coney Island. Their song Keep My Dream Alive is the theme of the film Shining In The Dark which was nominated in The Moscow International Film Festival, and they were invited to perform it there.Personnel:
Calvin Bennett - vocals, upright bass, 6- and 12-string guitars, cello; Johnny Young - vocals, piano, keyboards, acoustic and electric guitars; TJ Jordan - guitars, vocals; Jim Toscano - drums, percussion
Keep up with the band:
https://www.facebook.com/pg/GiantFlyingTurtlesBandhttps://twitter.com/GntFlyingTurtle
Bluegrass: Free Willy - Remember the Alamo (Buddha Belly Records, 2017)
Bluegrass:
Free Willy - Remember the Alamo
(Buddha Belly Records, 2017)
• Buy it at CDBaby
• Listen via Spotify
W.B. Jones is the heart of Free Willy, a band that was formed back in 2016 after he was inspired by a jam session at the Camp Street Cafe in Crockett, Texas. He's joined by Jimmy Taylor on bass and back up vocals. Taylor is a produced and an engineer who started out his career as the sound guy for the late, great Don Wilson, and served as recording and mixing engineer for Willie Nelson's
"Nacogdoches" album a dozen or so years ago. From that core duo, Spence Peppard on lead guitar and drums, Kevin Carter on fiddle and mandolin, and Steve DeVries on banjo and harmonica were added to flesh out the full, textured sound.
The fiddle and mandolin anchor the sound, with sweet guitar lines that weave in and out of them. The band infuses a range of expression into a traditional genre; without breaking from those traditions musically, they breathes new life into the country/bluegrass vein.
Amazing Gracie is a lively tune that evokes the more familiar old staple, twisting it into a boy loves girl song,
Amazing Gracie, how sweet the sound
Your love can save a wretch like me...
It's typical of the songs on this release - a nod to nostalgia, with good old fashioned 'let's get married' values in the lyrics. Few genres have escaped modern gentrification like bluegrass. The heart of the music are the strings - guitar, mandolin, fiddle - textured in layers that keep the quick two-step rhythm rolling along underneath D.B.s sincere tenor and harmony lines.
Lyrically, the songs cover love and life - the usual fare - with some interesting forays into philosophy. About God Has A Name, D.B. has this to say,
Not Your Everyday Love Song has a nice country swing, with lyrics that look at romance in a realistic light. There's a Christian spiritual bent as a grounding to the album's upbeat message, one that sometimes comes with a philosophical flair, as in As A Man Thinketh.
As a man thinketh in his heart,
So is he, so is he
There are tales of the working man who supports a family in Another Day, Another Dollar, while Meant to Be slows it down to a sweet bluegrass ballad about getting married, with a nicely poetic sense of melody.
There's a nice range of variation through the 12 tracks while staying well within the genre, with melodic variation and top notch musicianship to carry the momentum.
The group plans on starting to record a follow up album this fall.
Free Willy - Remember the Alamo
(Buddha Belly Records, 2017)
• Buy it at CDBaby
• Listen via Spotify
W.B. Jones is the heart of Free Willy, a band that was formed back in 2016 after he was inspired by a jam session at the Camp Street Cafe in Crockett, Texas. He's joined by Jimmy Taylor on bass and back up vocals. Taylor is a produced and an engineer who started out his career as the sound guy for the late, great Don Wilson, and served as recording and mixing engineer for Willie Nelson's
"Nacogdoches" album a dozen or so years ago. From that core duo, Spence Peppard on lead guitar and drums, Kevin Carter on fiddle and mandolin, and Steve DeVries on banjo and harmonica were added to flesh out the full, textured sound.
The fiddle and mandolin anchor the sound, with sweet guitar lines that weave in and out of them. The band infuses a range of expression into a traditional genre; without breaking from those traditions musically, they breathes new life into the country/bluegrass vein.Amazing Gracie is a lively tune that evokes the more familiar old staple, twisting it into a boy loves girl song,
Amazing Gracie, how sweet the sound
Your love can save a wretch like me...
It's typical of the songs on this release - a nod to nostalgia, with good old fashioned 'let's get married' values in the lyrics. Few genres have escaped modern gentrification like bluegrass. The heart of the music are the strings - guitar, mandolin, fiddle - textured in layers that keep the quick two-step rhythm rolling along underneath D.B.s sincere tenor and harmony lines.
Lyrically, the songs cover love and life - the usual fare - with some interesting forays into philosophy. About God Has A Name, D.B. has this to say,
"This song is based on my hypothesis that the Creator envelopes us in spectral light, and that anytime we see a rainbow, or light displayed via any type of prismatic device, it is to remind us of His constant presence. When I was in primary school, our teacher taught us the acronym, "ROY G BIV" to make it easy for us to remember the colors of the spectrum (rainbow): Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo and Violet. The song tells the rest of the story, which ALL of us can relate to in varying degrees, regardless of religious beliefs, or lack thereof."
Not Your Everyday Love Song has a nice country swing, with lyrics that look at romance in a realistic light. There's a Christian spiritual bent as a grounding to the album's upbeat message, one that sometimes comes with a philosophical flair, as in As A Man Thinketh.As a man thinketh in his heart,
So is he, so is he
There are tales of the working man who supports a family in Another Day, Another Dollar, while Meant to Be slows it down to a sweet bluegrass ballad about getting married, with a nicely poetic sense of melody.
There's a nice range of variation through the 12 tracks while staying well within the genre, with melodic variation and top notch musicianship to carry the momentum.
The group plans on starting to record a follow up album this fall.
Rock Single: Rachel & The Ruckus - Water & Oil (Independent - July 4 2017)
Rock Single:
Rachel & The Ruckus - Water & Oil
(Independent - July 4, 2017)
Rachel And The Ruckus deliver straight up high energy rock and roll with a country music edge in their latest single, Water and Oil. As you'd suspect from the title, the lyrics cover the usual 'we're not good for each other, so I've moved on' territory with a polished flair.
"I moved from California to be with my husband who is from here." say Rachel Alena in a media release. "It's basically about leaving my home and chasing a dream. What's more rock and roll than that?"
Rachel has a strong voice, full-bodied, with a nice range that goes from a low country twang to sweet and high. The vocal line is expressive and she's got a variety of tricks in her toolbag to impress. She's an accomplished keyboard player in addition to her vocal abilities.
Singer/keyboardist Rachel Alena and guitarist Alec Sims formed the core of the band, meeting several years ago while both played in another band. Drummer Chris Stongle is the latest addition to the line-up, having recently played at the Rocky Mountain Way concert with Joe Walsh, Garth Brooks, John Oats, Vince Gill, and Amy Grant. The addition of a sax to the mix is a welcome diversion from the usual country/rock instrumentation, giving the rock sound a bit of soul.
It's a crowd pleaser of a track and one that will go down well with fans of the genre.
Musicians:
Rachel Alena: Piano and Vocals; Alec Sims: Guitar; Vincent Carmellini: Bass; Andrew Vogt: Saxaphone; Kyle Comerford: Drums
Keep up with the band:
https://www.facebook.com/rachelandtheruckus
https://soundcloud.com/rachelandtheruckus
Rachel & The Ruckus - Water & Oil
(Independent - July 4, 2017)
Rachel And The Ruckus deliver straight up high energy rock and roll with a country music edge in their latest single, Water and Oil. As you'd suspect from the title, the lyrics cover the usual 'we're not good for each other, so I've moved on' territory with a polished flair."I moved from California to be with my husband who is from here." say Rachel Alena in a media release. "It's basically about leaving my home and chasing a dream. What's more rock and roll than that?"
Rachel has a strong voice, full-bodied, with a nice range that goes from a low country twang to sweet and high. The vocal line is expressive and she's got a variety of tricks in her toolbag to impress. She's an accomplished keyboard player in addition to her vocal abilities.
Singer/keyboardist Rachel Alena and guitarist Alec Sims formed the core of the band, meeting several years ago while both played in another band. Drummer Chris Stongle is the latest addition to the line-up, having recently played at the Rocky Mountain Way concert with Joe Walsh, Garth Brooks, John Oats, Vince Gill, and Amy Grant. The addition of a sax to the mix is a welcome diversion from the usual country/rock instrumentation, giving the rock sound a bit of soul.
It's a crowd pleaser of a track and one that will go down well with fans of the genre.
Musicians:
Rachel Alena: Piano and Vocals; Alec Sims: Guitar; Vincent Carmellini: Bass; Andrew Vogt: Saxaphone; Kyle Comerford: Drums
Keep up with the band:
https://www.facebook.com/rachelandtheruckus
https://soundcloud.com/rachelandtheruckus
September 21, 2017
Toronto Restaurant News: Alo Joins Relais & Chateaux - with New Bistro On The Way
From a media release:
Toronto Restaurant News:
ALO JOINS RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX Chef Patrick Kriss announces second restaurant on eve of prestigious designation
September 21, 2017. Toronto, ON. Alo Restaurant now joins the 550 world-class hotels and restaurants around the globe, recognised by the prestigious Relais & Châteaux designation. After setting a benchmark for inventive cuisine and outstanding hospitality in the world of fine dining, chef Patrick Kriss and General Manager Amanda Bradley proudly wear the distinction awarded to only seven Canadian properties to date.
Relais & Châteaux members are recognized for their unique experiences and expression of the culinary arts. Serving uncompromised tasting-menus on the third floor of a heritage building at Queen and Spadina, Alo and chef Patrick Kriss have done just that: created the unexpected.
“We are honored to join the Relais & Châteaux family,” said chef Patrick Kriss, “and we are committed to honouring this distinction with a continued commitment to the meticulous standard of cuisine and hospitality we have become known for.”
“There is nothing more rewarding than seeing our efforts recognised by the Relais & Châteaux title,” said Amanda Bradley, General Manager,” Our vision started with creating the best experience for our guests while celebrating the unique French culture and history. It is an honor to now be regarded as among the best in the industry.”
On the heels of this success, Chef Patrick Kriss will debut his new restaurant concept, Aloette this fall. Located below Alo at 163 Spadina Avenue, Aloette plans to be the neighbourhood bistro reimagined, offering thoughtful service, cocktails and conversation at Toronto’s busiest intersection. Stay tuned for updates.
About Relais & Chateaux
Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an association of over 540 exceptional hotels and restaurants run by independent men and women who share the same passion for their profession and for maintaining authentic relationships with their clients. The members of Relais & Châteaux are present on every continent, from the vineyards of Napa Valley to Provence and the Indian Ocean. Each one invites you to discover the art of living through the specific culture of the locale and to share in a unique human adventure. Each member of Relais & Châteaux is profoundly determined to protect, share and showcase the richness and diversity of cuisines and hospitality throughout the world. They endorse this ambition, in keeping with the preservation of local heritage and the environment, through the Relais & Châteaux Vision, presented to UNESCO in November 2014.
Toronto Restaurant News:
ALO JOINS RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX Chef Patrick Kriss announces second restaurant on eve of prestigious designation
September 21, 2017. Toronto, ON. Alo Restaurant now joins the 550 world-class hotels and restaurants around the globe, recognised by the prestigious Relais & Châteaux designation. After setting a benchmark for inventive cuisine and outstanding hospitality in the world of fine dining, chef Patrick Kriss and General Manager Amanda Bradley proudly wear the distinction awarded to only seven Canadian properties to date.
Relais & Châteaux members are recognized for their unique experiences and expression of the culinary arts. Serving uncompromised tasting-menus on the third floor of a heritage building at Queen and Spadina, Alo and chef Patrick Kriss have done just that: created the unexpected.“We are honored to join the Relais & Châteaux family,” said chef Patrick Kriss, “and we are committed to honouring this distinction with a continued commitment to the meticulous standard of cuisine and hospitality we have become known for.”
“There is nothing more rewarding than seeing our efforts recognised by the Relais & Châteaux title,” said Amanda Bradley, General Manager,” Our vision started with creating the best experience for our guests while celebrating the unique French culture and history. It is an honor to now be regarded as among the best in the industry.”
On the heels of this success, Chef Patrick Kriss will debut his new restaurant concept, Aloette this fall. Located below Alo at 163 Spadina Avenue, Aloette plans to be the neighbourhood bistro reimagined, offering thoughtful service, cocktails and conversation at Toronto’s busiest intersection. Stay tuned for updates.
About Relais & Chateaux
Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an association of over 540 exceptional hotels and restaurants run by independent men and women who share the same passion for their profession and for maintaining authentic relationships with their clients. The members of Relais & Châteaux are present on every continent, from the vineyards of Napa Valley to Provence and the Indian Ocean. Each one invites you to discover the art of living through the specific culture of the locale and to share in a unique human adventure. Each member of Relais & Châteaux is profoundly determined to protect, share and showcase the richness and diversity of cuisines and hospitality throughout the world. They endorse this ambition, in keeping with the preservation of local heritage and the environment, through the Relais & Châteaux Vision, presented to UNESCO in November 2014.
September 9, 2017
The Orange River Wine Route: Explore the Green Kalahari in South Africa
The Orange River Wine Route
Explore the Green Kalahari in South Africa
In the middle of a semi-desert area in the Northern Cape region of South Africa, the so-called Green Kalahari stretches improbably on either side of the Orange River, or Orange-Senqu River -- a wine route that has become a favourite of tourists and locals alike. Upington, Keimoes, Kakamas, Groblershoop and Grootdrink are the towns you'll find stretched along the river.
Larger than Germany, the Northern Cape is the most sparsely populated region of South Africa, and includes a variety of landscapes and environments from savannahs to semi-arid areas of red sand dunes to the green valley of the Orange River.
How to Get Here:
The N8 will get you as far as Upington. From there you can make a base camp, or keep driving till you hit the N10 at Groblershoop. Continuing northwest along the west bank of the river, you'll soon reach the N14. Vineyards extend about 300km on either side of the river. You can cover the whole route in about two days with frequent stops along the way -- Keimoes, Kakamas and Upington on one day, and Groblershoop and Grootdrink on another.
The Wines
The Orange River creates the slightly cooler micro-climate where vinyards thrive, and the region is known for its quality grapes, including sultana, columbard, chenin, and hanepoort varieties. The majority of wines produced here are white, including semi-sweet wines, dessert wines, and blended varieties, with a small amount of reds too.
About 850 farmers in the area supply grapes to the five Orange River Cellars, a co-op that was founded in 1965. There are cellars in Upingtnon, Kakamas, Keimoes, Grootdrink, and Groblershoop. Together, they produce about 30 different wines.
You can visit the five Orange River Cellars for wine tastings and tours. Cellar tours are free and are offered Mondays to Fridays and Saturday mornings during the harvest season from January to March. The cellars are open year round for wine tastings, which cost R10 for five wines and R20 for 10 wines.
You'll also find small, private wineries and vineyards, many that offer B&B accommodations, restaurants, and other amenities.
Orange River Cellars – 054 337 8800 / www.orangeriverwines.com
Bezalel Wine & Brandy Estate – 054 491 1325 / www.bezalel.co.za
Die Mas – 054 431 0245 / 082 931 5902 / www.diemasvankakamas.co.za
Douglas Wine Cellar – 053 298 8315
Other Attractions in/near the Green Kalahari:
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, or Kalahari Gemsbok National Park is Africa’s first transfrontier park, straddling Botswana and South Africa at the border with Namibia. It covers almost 3.7 million hectares of largely arid land, including red sand dunes and dry riverbeds. It is an important sanctuary for gemsbok, springbok, blue wildebeest, red hartebeest, eland, lion, leopard, cheetah and smaller game. Camping is available in the park. RESERVATIONS +27 12 428 9111 https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kgalagadi/
The Augrabies Falls National Park, where the Orange River begins with a 56m drop of rushing waters down a series of granite cataracts. Augrabies Falls National Park – 012 428 9111 / www.sanparks.co.za
If you like an active vacation, you'll enjoy adventure sports like white water rafting, parasailing on the many pans in the region, micro light glides above the undulating red dunes and jagged mountains of Riemvasmaak and the Mier Kalahari with its 35 to 40 meters high sand dunes. For the less adventurous traveller there is an abundance of hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, bird watching, game drives in the national and many exquisite private game reserves, camping and fly-in safaris.
Belurana River Boutique Hotel
Stay in a gracious 4-star boutique hotel on the banks of the Orange River. Rooms are spacious and feature elegant decor. There's a private patio overlookign the river, and an Olympic sized swimming pool on the landscaped grounds. Amenities include free Wifi, breakfast, and dinners available with 24 hours notice.
BELURANA RIVER BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2 Brug Street | Die Dorp, Upington 8801, South AfricaPhone: +27 (0) 54 332 4323Mobile: +27 (0) 82 925 3029Address: 2 Brug Street, UpingtonE-mail: belurana@mweb.co.za
Explore the Green Kalahari in South Africa
In the middle of a semi-desert area in the Northern Cape region of South Africa, the so-called Green Kalahari stretches improbably on either side of the Orange River, or Orange-Senqu River -- a wine route that has become a favourite of tourists and locals alike. Upington, Keimoes, Kakamas, Groblershoop and Grootdrink are the towns you'll find stretched along the river.
Larger than Germany, the Northern Cape is the most sparsely populated region of South Africa, and includes a variety of landscapes and environments from savannahs to semi-arid areas of red sand dunes to the green valley of the Orange River.
How to Get Here:
The N8 will get you as far as Upington. From there you can make a base camp, or keep driving till you hit the N10 at Groblershoop. Continuing northwest along the west bank of the river, you'll soon reach the N14. Vineyards extend about 300km on either side of the river. You can cover the whole route in about two days with frequent stops along the way -- Keimoes, Kakamas and Upington on one day, and Groblershoop and Grootdrink on another.
The Wines
The Orange River creates the slightly cooler micro-climate where vinyards thrive, and the region is known for its quality grapes, including sultana, columbard, chenin, and hanepoort varieties. The majority of wines produced here are white, including semi-sweet wines, dessert wines, and blended varieties, with a small amount of reds too.
About 850 farmers in the area supply grapes to the five Orange River Cellars, a co-op that was founded in 1965. There are cellars in Upingtnon, Kakamas, Keimoes, Grootdrink, and Groblershoop. Together, they produce about 30 different wines.
You can visit the five Orange River Cellars for wine tastings and tours. Cellar tours are free and are offered Mondays to Fridays and Saturday mornings during the harvest season from January to March. The cellars are open year round for wine tastings, which cost R10 for five wines and R20 for 10 wines.
You'll also find small, private wineries and vineyards, many that offer B&B accommodations, restaurants, and other amenities.
Orange River Cellars – 054 337 8800 / www.orangeriverwines.com
Bezalel Wine & Brandy Estate – 054 491 1325 / www.bezalel.co.za
Die Mas – 054 431 0245 / 082 931 5902 / www.diemasvankakamas.co.za
Douglas Wine Cellar – 053 298 8315
Other Attractions in/near the Green Kalahari:
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, or Kalahari Gemsbok National Park is Africa’s first transfrontier park, straddling Botswana and South Africa at the border with Namibia. It covers almost 3.7 million hectares of largely arid land, including red sand dunes and dry riverbeds. It is an important sanctuary for gemsbok, springbok, blue wildebeest, red hartebeest, eland, lion, leopard, cheetah and smaller game. Camping is available in the park. RESERVATIONS +27 12 428 9111 https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kgalagadi/
The Augrabies Falls National Park, where the Orange River begins with a 56m drop of rushing waters down a series of granite cataracts. Augrabies Falls National Park – 012 428 9111 / www.sanparks.co.za
If you like an active vacation, you'll enjoy adventure sports like white water rafting, parasailing on the many pans in the region, micro light glides above the undulating red dunes and jagged mountains of Riemvasmaak and the Mier Kalahari with its 35 to 40 meters high sand dunes. For the less adventurous traveller there is an abundance of hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, bird watching, game drives in the national and many exquisite private game reserves, camping and fly-in safaris.
Belurana River Boutique Hotel
Stay in a gracious 4-star boutique hotel on the banks of the Orange River. Rooms are spacious and feature elegant decor. There's a private patio overlookign the river, and an Olympic sized swimming pool on the landscaped grounds. Amenities include free Wifi, breakfast, and dinners available with 24 hours notice.
BELURANA RIVER BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2 Brug Street | Die Dorp, Upington 8801, South AfricaPhone: +27 (0) 54 332 4323Mobile: +27 (0) 82 925 3029Address: 2 Brug Street, UpingtonE-mail: belurana@mweb.co.za
September 8, 2017
Vancouver Art Gallery: Entangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting September 30 2017 to January 1 2018
From a media release:
Vancouver Art Gallery:
Exploring the story of Canadian painting in a major exhibition,
Entangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting
September 30, 2017 to January 1, 2018
September 8, 2017, Vancouver, BC – On September 30, 2017, the Vancouver Art Gallery is excited to open Entangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting, on view until January 1, 2018, featuring artists and painting practices from across the country.
The story of contemporary painting in Canada is constantly changing, and for good reason—dynamic and influential art practices, wildly differing opinions and strongly held beliefs make for a charged atmosphere in art schools, studios and public and private galleries. Within the community of painters, strong ideas give shape to new modes of painting and new techniques that are in turn shared, debated, tested and critiqued in studios across Canada.
Sandra Meigs, pile by furnace
(from The Basement Pile Series) 2013; acrylic on canvasEntangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting offers insight into two distinctly different approaches that have come to dominate contemporary painting in this country. The origins of both can be traced back to the 1970s, to a moment when the continued existence of painting was hotly debated.
Within that debate, two new strategies were devised, one that proposed the possibility of conceptual painting—a notion of painting that emerged from and returned to the idea—and a second painting proposition that valued actions and materiality over ideas—in short, doing and making were pitted against ideas and concepts. Entangled traces the legacy of that debate and documents the artists who have been largely responsible for the strong revival that painting now enjoys in this country.
“Entangled offers a timely opportunity to explore on a national scale the origins and contemporary manifestations of paintings in this country,” says Kathleen S. Bartels, Director of the Vancouver Art Gallery. “With work by thirty-one artists from Halifax to Victoria and many places in-between, the exhibition carries this significant national conversation into the present while offering a survey of the lively debates that have come to make painting relevant and meaningful today.”
Sarah Cale, Idle Ecstasy, 2016,
painting fragments and oil on panel, Private CollectionEntangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting is presented from two conjugate curatorial perspectives. The first, Art As Idea as Painting, curated by artist and Emily Carr University of Art + Design professor David MacWilliam, will feature artists Neil Campbell, Tammi Campbell, Arabella Campbell, Allyson Clay, Gerald Ferguson, Neil Harrison, Jeremy Hof, Garry Neill Kennedy, Guido Molinari, Guy Pellerin, Francine Savard, Jeffrey Spalding, Ron Terada, Claude Tousignant and Julie Trudel.
The second, Performative Painting, curated by Vancouver Art Gallery Senior Curator Bruce Grenville, will feature artists Stephanie Aitken, Marvin Luvualu António, Rebecca Brewer, Sarah Cale, Eric Fischl, Jessica Groome, Colleen Heslin, John Heward, John Kissick, Elizabeth McIntosh, Sandra Meigs, Paterson Ewen, Jeanie Riddle, Michael Snow, Nathalie Thibault and Joyce Wieland.
Entangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting will be accompanied by a 112-page publication with texts by the two curators.
Exhibition-Related Public Programs
A Crimp in the Fabric: Situating Painting Today
A Crimp in the Fabric: Situating Painting Today, which includes a keynote lecture and day-long symposium, presents a range of perspectives reflecting on the current state of contemporary painting practices. A Crimp in the Fabric: Situating Painting Today is co-organized by the University of British Columbia, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Simon Fraser University and the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Keynote Lecture
Isabelle Graw: The Value of Painting
When: Thursday, September 28, 7:00 p.m.
Where: Reliance Theatre, Emily Carr University of Art + Design
The keynote presentation by renowned art historian and critic Isabelle Graw—The Value of Painting—will be held on September 28 at 7:00 p.m. Graw will consider what constitutes painting today and look at current measures of value in painting, from artistic to economic, through the lens of critical theory.
Isabelle Graw is Professor for Art Theory and Art History at Staatliche Hochschule für Bildende Künste (Städelschule), Frankfurt am Main, where she co-founded the Institute of Art Criticism. She is an art critic and co-founder of Texte zur Kunst in Berlin.
Vancouver Art Gallery:
Exploring the story of Canadian painting in a major exhibition,
Entangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting
September 30, 2017 to January 1, 2018
September 8, 2017, Vancouver, BC – On September 30, 2017, the Vancouver Art Gallery is excited to open Entangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting, on view until January 1, 2018, featuring artists and painting practices from across the country.
The story of contemporary painting in Canada is constantly changing, and for good reason—dynamic and influential art practices, wildly differing opinions and strongly held beliefs make for a charged atmosphere in art schools, studios and public and private galleries. Within the community of painters, strong ideas give shape to new modes of painting and new techniques that are in turn shared, debated, tested and critiqued in studios across Canada.
Sandra Meigs, pile by furnace(from The Basement Pile Series) 2013; acrylic on canvasEntangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting offers insight into two distinctly different approaches that have come to dominate contemporary painting in this country. The origins of both can be traced back to the 1970s, to a moment when the continued existence of painting was hotly debated.
Within that debate, two new strategies were devised, one that proposed the possibility of conceptual painting—a notion of painting that emerged from and returned to the idea—and a second painting proposition that valued actions and materiality over ideas—in short, doing and making were pitted against ideas and concepts. Entangled traces the legacy of that debate and documents the artists who have been largely responsible for the strong revival that painting now enjoys in this country.
“Entangled offers a timely opportunity to explore on a national scale the origins and contemporary manifestations of paintings in this country,” says Kathleen S. Bartels, Director of the Vancouver Art Gallery. “With work by thirty-one artists from Halifax to Victoria and many places in-between, the exhibition carries this significant national conversation into the present while offering a survey of the lively debates that have come to make painting relevant and meaningful today.”
Sarah Cale, Idle Ecstasy, 2016, painting fragments and oil on panel, Private CollectionEntangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting is presented from two conjugate curatorial perspectives. The first, Art As Idea as Painting, curated by artist and Emily Carr University of Art + Design professor David MacWilliam, will feature artists Neil Campbell, Tammi Campbell, Arabella Campbell, Allyson Clay, Gerald Ferguson, Neil Harrison, Jeremy Hof, Garry Neill Kennedy, Guido Molinari, Guy Pellerin, Francine Savard, Jeffrey Spalding, Ron Terada, Claude Tousignant and Julie Trudel.
The second, Performative Painting, curated by Vancouver Art Gallery Senior Curator Bruce Grenville, will feature artists Stephanie Aitken, Marvin Luvualu António, Rebecca Brewer, Sarah Cale, Eric Fischl, Jessica Groome, Colleen Heslin, John Heward, John Kissick, Elizabeth McIntosh, Sandra Meigs, Paterson Ewen, Jeanie Riddle, Michael Snow, Nathalie Thibault and Joyce Wieland.
Entangled: Two Views on Contemporary Canadian Painting will be accompanied by a 112-page publication with texts by the two curators.
Exhibition-Related Public Programs
A Crimp in the Fabric: Situating Painting Today
A Crimp in the Fabric: Situating Painting Today, which includes a keynote lecture and day-long symposium, presents a range of perspectives reflecting on the current state of contemporary painting practices. A Crimp in the Fabric: Situating Painting Today is co-organized by the University of British Columbia, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Simon Fraser University and the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Keynote LectureIsabelle Graw: The Value of Painting
When: Thursday, September 28, 7:00 p.m.
Where: Reliance Theatre, Emily Carr University of Art + Design
The keynote presentation by renowned art historian and critic Isabelle Graw—The Value of Painting—will be held on September 28 at 7:00 p.m. Graw will consider what constitutes painting today and look at current measures of value in painting, from artistic to economic, through the lens of critical theory.
Isabelle Graw is Professor for Art Theory and Art History at Staatliche Hochschule für Bildende Künste (Städelschule), Frankfurt am Main, where she co-founded the Institute of Art Criticism. She is an art critic and co-founder of Texte zur Kunst in Berlin.
McMichael exhibition on groundbreaking Inuk artist Annie Pootoogook: Cutting Ice runs until February 11 2018
From a media release:
The McMichael presents major exhibition on groundbreaking Inuk artist
Annie Pootoogook: Cutting Ice runs until February 11, 2018.
KLEINBURG, ON—On September 2, 2017, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection will proudly present Annie Pootoogook: Cutting Ice—the first major exhibition on the life and work of this renowned Inuk artist since her untimely death in 2016.
Cape Dorset artist Annie PootoogookPootoogook, who received the prestigious Sobey Art Award in 2006, is widely known for the skill and colourful detail with which she captured candid and contemporary scenes of everyday life in Cape Dorset, Nunavut. Taking both the exceptional and the mundane as her subjects, Pootoogook's drawings intrigue in their openness, wit and sincerity, all the while challenging the mainstream perception of what Inuit art should and could be. "Annie Pootoogook's work cracked the glass ceiling for Inuit art and its place in contemporary Canadian art history," said Dr. Nancy Campbell, Exhibition Curator. "There is much to celebrate when looking at the potential and possibility for a new conversation that includes Inuit art in new ways in Canada and the world."
Annie Pootoogook: Cutting Ice will provide a comprehensive and thought-provoking overview of the legacy and influence of this artist, whose originality and contemporaneity left an indelible mark on the art world.
Cape Dorset artist Annie PootoogookCurated by Campbell, a distinguished Inuit art scholar, this exhibition will feature over 50 of Annie Pootoogook's drawings made between 2001 and 2010, as well as works by her Cape Dorset contemporaries: Shuvinai Ashoona, Siassie Kenneally, Itee Pootoogook, Jutai Toonoo and Ohotaq Mikkigak.
Shedding light on issues of reconciliation and recovery in the North, and drawing on the unique history of Inuit artmaking and the Cooperative system, this special retrospective honours an artist whose tragic passing on September 19, 2016, left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and spark discussion about Inuit art and how it is interpreted across Canada and the world.
Cape Dorset artist Annie PootoogookOne third of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection’s permanent collection is comprised of works by First Nations and Inuit artists. Recent acquisitions by the McMichael demonstrate a continued and concerted effort in the support and purchase of works by Indigenous artists and female artists.
"Since 2014, the McMichael has acquired 176 works of art by Indigenous female artists to build upon the gallery's earlier historical collection," said Ian Dejardin, Executive Director of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. "Last quarter, the gallery purchased four works by Annie Pootoogook to complement a gift of twelve of her works the gallery graciously received,” added Dejardin.
About the McMichael Canadian Art Collection
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is an agency of the Government of Ontario and acknowledges the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and the McMichael Canadian Art Foundation. It is the foremost venue in the country showcasing the Group of Seven and their contemporaries. In addition to touring exhibitions, its permanent collection consists of over 6,000 artworks by Canadian artists, including paintings by the Group of Seven and their contemporaries, as well as First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists. The gallery is located on 100 acres of northern landscape and hiking trails at 10365 Islington Avenue, Kleinburg, north of Major Mackenzie Drive in the City of Vaughan. For more information: mcmichael.com.
An intimate portrait of Cape Dorset artist Annie Pootoogook as she prepared for her first solo exhibition at The Power Plant Centre for Contemporary Art in Toronto in 2006.
The McMichael presents major exhibition on groundbreaking Inuk artist
Annie Pootoogook: Cutting Ice runs until February 11, 2018.
KLEINBURG, ON—On September 2, 2017, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection will proudly present Annie Pootoogook: Cutting Ice—the first major exhibition on the life and work of this renowned Inuk artist since her untimely death in 2016.
Cape Dorset artist Annie PootoogookPootoogook, who received the prestigious Sobey Art Award in 2006, is widely known for the skill and colourful detail with which she captured candid and contemporary scenes of everyday life in Cape Dorset, Nunavut. Taking both the exceptional and the mundane as her subjects, Pootoogook's drawings intrigue in their openness, wit and sincerity, all the while challenging the mainstream perception of what Inuit art should and could be. "Annie Pootoogook's work cracked the glass ceiling for Inuit art and its place in contemporary Canadian art history," said Dr. Nancy Campbell, Exhibition Curator. "There is much to celebrate when looking at the potential and possibility for a new conversation that includes Inuit art in new ways in Canada and the world."Annie Pootoogook: Cutting Ice will provide a comprehensive and thought-provoking overview of the legacy and influence of this artist, whose originality and contemporaneity left an indelible mark on the art world.
Cape Dorset artist Annie PootoogookCurated by Campbell, a distinguished Inuit art scholar, this exhibition will feature over 50 of Annie Pootoogook's drawings made between 2001 and 2010, as well as works by her Cape Dorset contemporaries: Shuvinai Ashoona, Siassie Kenneally, Itee Pootoogook, Jutai Toonoo and Ohotaq Mikkigak.Shedding light on issues of reconciliation and recovery in the North, and drawing on the unique history of Inuit artmaking and the Cooperative system, this special retrospective honours an artist whose tragic passing on September 19, 2016, left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and spark discussion about Inuit art and how it is interpreted across Canada and the world.
Cape Dorset artist Annie PootoogookOne third of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection’s permanent collection is comprised of works by First Nations and Inuit artists. Recent acquisitions by the McMichael demonstrate a continued and concerted effort in the support and purchase of works by Indigenous artists and female artists."Since 2014, the McMichael has acquired 176 works of art by Indigenous female artists to build upon the gallery's earlier historical collection," said Ian Dejardin, Executive Director of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. "Last quarter, the gallery purchased four works by Annie Pootoogook to complement a gift of twelve of her works the gallery graciously received,” added Dejardin.
About the McMichael Canadian Art CollectionThe McMichael Canadian Art Collection is an agency of the Government of Ontario and acknowledges the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and the McMichael Canadian Art Foundation. It is the foremost venue in the country showcasing the Group of Seven and their contemporaries. In addition to touring exhibitions, its permanent collection consists of over 6,000 artworks by Canadian artists, including paintings by the Group of Seven and their contemporaries, as well as First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists. The gallery is located on 100 acres of northern landscape and hiking trails at 10365 Islington Avenue, Kleinburg, north of Major Mackenzie Drive in the City of Vaughan. For more information: mcmichael.com.
An intimate portrait of Cape Dorset artist Annie Pootoogook as she prepared for her first solo exhibition at The Power Plant Centre for Contemporary Art in Toronto in 2006.
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