Head of Archives, National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
The Witness Blanket is a commemorative project that gathers together the truth of residential school history in multiple forms. Carey Newman's narrative will begin with the initial concept, briefly touching on the collection process, engaging with community, the responsibility that comes from working with materials and stories contributed by others, my creative process, the 4.5 year tour, and eventually conclude with a description of the unique stewardship agreement that places rights with the artwork itself, and shares the responsibility of acting the best interest of the blanket and the stories that it carries with the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participant will be able to discuss non-textual, Indigenous approaches to commemoration.
Upon completion, participant will be able to recognize the value of community artwork in Indigenous ceremony.
Upon completion, participant will be able to understand collective community values relative to individual rights.
Upon completion, participant will be able to speak to the concerns of Indigenous peoples over issues of cultural colonization.
