GATHERING OF THE CLANS
The Gathering of the Clans is a community collaborative mosaic project that was created and installed on the grounds of Todmorden Mills , in the summer of 2015. Designed by Artists Philip Cote - Indigenous artist, activist, educator, historian, cultural advisor and Ancestral Knowledge Keeper from Moose Deer Point First Nation and Rebecca Baird - Nehiyaw Cree/Métis multi-media artist - both are recognized leaders enlivening Indigenous cultural awareness and broader public appreciation. The mosaic depicts the Anishinaabe Clan Governance System symbolizing the roles, talents, and responsibilities of a worldview and connection First Nations communities had to the site prior to the expansion of the Western industrial complex.
The public art installation is a 7' diameter table, made from cedar, with the art glass mosaic mounted on it's top surface, encircled with a copper frame. This outdoor monument serves as a gathering space, inviting visitors to reflect on the pre-colonial history of this site and the resilience of the Anishinaabe. With mosaic art production and facilitation from Red Pepper Spectacle Arts, on-site production provided opportunities for community members to participate in glass application. Partners: Native Men's Residence - Rachel Shilling is Anishinaabe Chippewas of Rama First Nation. She is a cultural leader and beloved counsellor supporting shelter residents facing the impacts of poverty, mental health, addictions, abuse, and social isolation and achieve success in transitioning to housing. Marie Gaudet is Anishinaabe, Turtle Clan and a member of the Wikwemikong First Nation located on Manitoulin Island. She is a respected cultural leader, knowledge keeper, educator, creator, dancer, singer and hand drummer. She is an Indigenous language advocate and fluent in Anishinaabemowin. Marie is an educator with the Kapapamachakwew – Wandering Spirit School. |
Saturday and Sunday, September 19 & 20, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Join The Gathering of the Clans artists at Todmorden Mills Harvest Festival to a Lantern Making Workshop. Participants are invited to create their own paper lantern, illuminated with imagery honouring the our natural ecology.
Sunday September 27, 2 p.m.
The unveiling ceremony will include an opening song by Knowledge Keeper and Traditional Singer Marie Gaudet and remarks from Phil Cote and Rebecca Baird with an invitation for guests to enjoy light refreshments.
All public workshops take place on-site at Todmorden Mills which is located at 67 Pottery Road (map on bottom of page).
Join The Gathering of the Clans artists at Todmorden Mills Harvest Festival to a Lantern Making Workshop. Participants are invited to create their own paper lantern, illuminated with imagery honouring the our natural ecology.
Sunday September 27, 2 p.m.
The unveiling ceremony will include an opening song by Knowledge Keeper and Traditional Singer Marie Gaudet and remarks from Phil Cote and Rebecca Baird with an invitation for guests to enjoy light refreshments.
All public workshops take place on-site at Todmorden Mills which is located at 67 Pottery Road (map on bottom of page).