Oyate Wiyawapi, meaning circle of stories in the Nakota language, will soon become the new name of The Ridge’s Art Gallery and Interpretive Centre.
“Chief and Council in the community came up with the name a long time ago when the first initial vision of the building came to light,” Buckley said. “The idea was to really understand and share our stories.”
The centre will celebrate its official grand opening Saturday, welcoming community members to gather, learn and explore the former residential school site.
“We’re very excited to start this new milestone of our journey here at the Ridge.”
The event will also mark the beginning of two community art initiatives. One will invite participants to help create a logo for the centre, while the other will involve decorating feathers that will eventually come together to form a large set of eagle wings for an art exhibit.
Running from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the grand opening will feature opening remarks, local performers, face painting, raffle draws, vendors and site tours.
Inside the gallery, visitors can explore an art exhibit room named in honour of the late Henry Beaudry, an Indigenous artist from the area. Beaudry, a residential school survivor and veteran, turned to art as part of his healing journey, creating pieces inspired by his memories. The room features some of his prints, along with a featured exhibit titled Lost Liberties.
Buckley said the gallery will continue to evolve, with different exhibits featured over time. She also hopes to eventually showcase artifacts from different countries.
“Coming together in this ceremony of healing and hope and journey, just to be able to bring laughter back to the area, to make sure that we’re really honouring what has come and what is before us and to really grow together as a community,” Buckley said.
People of all ages are welcome to attend the grand opening, which will include performances, a free lunch and an opportunity to explore Oyate Wiyawapi.
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