February 24, 2023

In Wabanaki oral tradition, the world was created with a single thought from a mystical being. It demonstrates that everything is connected and even the smallest ideas matter.

This year’s Wabanaki Visual Arts exhibition, It started with a thought… is centred around this concept. Featuring the work of Wabanaki Visual Arts Studio students, alumni, and faculty, the exhibit considers storytelling and relationality through beadwork, wood, wampum, painting, photography, and quillwork.

It started with a thought… opens Thursday, March 2 at the George Fry Gallery with a public reception (open to all) from 4:30pm to 6pm, and runs until March 28, 2023. The exhibit will be free of charge.

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“The core teaching of this story is that we are connected to all living and non-living things and beings … The Creation Story is told over many days because everything in the universe must be considered. The stars are formed, followed by the planets, water, rockers, trees, insects, and eventually, us.

“Creation is a constellation of sequential thought wherein the smallest ideas matter,” said Emma Hassencahl-Perley, the exhibit curator. She is also displaying her own work in the exhibit.

Judie Acquin, the Wabanaki Visual Arts Studio Head, said the exhibit’s work is a demonstration of the connection each participant has to their understanding of who they are.

“Their processes are mindful and reflective while maintaining their own aesthetic.”

The exhibit will feature the works of Judie Acquin, Lisa-Maude Aubin-Berube, Emma Hassencahl-Perley, Emily Johnson, Rob Johnston, Timothy ‘Bjorn’ Jones, Natasha Sacobie, and Spasaqsit Possesom (Ron Tremblay).

The George Fry Gallery is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and located at 408 Queen St., Fredericton, NB. Masks required. 

Learn more about the Wabanaki Visual Arts program at NBCCD.

ABOUT NBCCD 

Located in the heart of downtown Fredericton, the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design empowers its students to achieve sustainable, creative careers in craft and design. 

We offer 8 diploma programs, each focused on a specific field of craft and design, and two certificate programs, one will expose you the foundational principles of visual art and design, the other is focused on creative entrepreneurship. 

Whether your goal is to start your own arts studio practice, get a job as a creative, or return to the classroom one day as an arts instructor in one of our programs, we give you the tools and opportunities to get there! 

Start your journey to your arts career with our Foundation Visual Arts program in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick, or online. 

Explore our programs today.