Honouring Their Lives

Description

The 2016 Florida massacre, where fifty gay people were murdered and fifty-two others were injured, brought shock and pain to those connected in 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Queer people around the world continue to endure humiliation, suffering, and death due to the homophobia. The bold strokes of paint standing tall, holding the globally recognised Pride Rainbow colours, sit in a sea of turbulent deep blue murky waters, trying to hold their vibrancy. The colours have faded, leaving faint stains of paint which represent the lives so senselessly taken from the community. Yet the strength, the perseverance, the boldness, and the Pride remains. “This is why we march,” states the artist. "We march to honour the lives lost and speak for those who have been silenced." The Pride flag, a symbol of celebration, strength and resilience, stands strong. The artist wants us to honour the lives taken, and though shaken by repeated attacks, continue to stand up for the rights of our brothers and sisters. 

Artist

Carmel Whittle

Carmel Whittle is a Mi'kmaw/Irish cultural community visual artist, independent film maker, musician/songwriter and activist. She identifies as Mi'kmaw-Irish, 2-spirit, a queer Newfoundland and Labradorian woman, who has been transformed by: the knowledge of the genocide lands of the Beothuck, First Nation Indigenous Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador, and by the modern movements of resistance and creation. What she saw in the catalyzing power of youth - such as the Nishiyuu Walkers from Northern Quebec to Ottawa, and the ongoing Idle no More resistance movement - helped her not just to move beyond, but to strive to unite suffering and devastation with strength and hope.

The transformative power of art is the change. Whittle wants the viewer to explore, question, reflect and seek. Her intention is to express hardships behind bountiful colours rich in a style that leave the viewer in a state of inquiry. These works hold suffering and strength; and through her personal journey she wishes to provoke the creation of new realities, new awarenesses, and new forms of resistance. Metis leader Louis Riel said "My people will sleep for 100 years but when they awake it will be the artists who give them back their spirit.” (Louis Riel, July 4, 1885)

Donation

Based on our agreement with the artist, 15% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the social movement. Donation will be given to the No Borders Art Festival.