Indigenous Creative Spaces and Treaty Partner Gatherings

In a spirit of respect, curiosity, and shared learning, the Quinte Arts Council hosts Indigenous Creative Spaces and Treaty Partner Gatherings, an important and timely session that brings together artists, organizations, and community members in a shared commitment to learning, reflection, and meaningful relationship-building.

Taking place on April 30, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the Belleville Public Library, this free, interactive workshop invites participants to engage deeply with the principles of allyship, Indigenous sovereignty, and self-determination in the arts. Led by Dr. Terri-Lynn Brennan and Christine Friday, and supported by ArtsBuild Ontario, the session offers both practical guidance and space for thoughtful dialogue.

At the heart of the gathering is a focus on how arts organizations can move beyond intention toward meaningful action. Participants will explore how to build respectful and reciprocal relationships with Indigenous artists and communities, while reflecting on their own organizational practices. The session encourages attendees to consider how structures and systems can evolve to better support Indigenous-led creative spaces grounded in autonomy and cultural integrity.

Drawing on the Paddling Upstream framework, as well as Christine Friday’s lived experience in hosting Indigenous Creative Spaces gatherings, the workshop will provide tools for navigating conversations with care, humility, and respect. Guiding principles such as the Two-Row Wampum will help frame discussions around coexistence, partnership, and shared responsibility.

This session also marks the culmination of a four-year Indigenous Creative Spaces Project—an initiative that has brought together Indigenous artists and leaders from across Ontario. Guided by an Indigenous Advisory Circle, the project has fostered a network of knowledge-sharing and collaboration, supporting the growth and sustainability of self-determined creative spaces. Through both oral and recorded documentation, this work continues to serve as a resource for communities and organizations alike.

The Quinte Arts Council warmly invites all who are interested—artists, cultural workers, and community members—to take part in this important conversation. The afternoon will include opportunities to listen, learn, and build relationships in a welcoming and inclusive environment. A local Indigenous caterer will provide food and refreshments, and the venue is fully accessible.

This gathering is more than a workshop—it is part of an ongoing journey toward equity, understanding, and respect in the arts. Space is limited, and registration is required.

Article published in the Belleville Intelligencer April 16, 2026