Quilting our collective.
Co-founders Jaimie Isaac & Niki Little undertook the project “quilt our collective.” Both feel that Winnipeg is a hot bed for emerging artists, curators, and cultural interpreters and breaking onto this scene comes with its own set of challenges. Some obstacles that they have identified include gaining professional experience that contributes to developing a personal voice, acquiring financial and logistical backing for projects, as well as engaging in critique with peers in a mindful environment. Although the collective will not eradicate all these issues, they believe strength in numbers will happily cultivate motivation, encouragement and add a dynamic flavour to their work.
The residency gave them time and space to research and creatively brainstorm. Within two days they plan to compose their mandate, discuss prospective projects and suss out a plan of action. Identity in relation to the theme of community is not only found within their practices but it also embedded in the cultural fabric that is quintessentially Winnipeg. So they feel that it is fitting we begin this journey in a space that is locally owned and who supports the notion of presenting art and critical dialogue in innovative and dynamic ways.
Their findings will be stitched together create a paper quilt that will represent our collective. This counterpane will be their introduction to the community through its exhibition in the Tallest Poppy window following our residency.