Two Indigenous artists have withdrawn their artwork from the University of Calgary gallery in protest following a controversial event on campus. The event, organized by Canadian Students for Free Speech, sparked a debate on whether residential schools were an act of genocide. This led to a demonstration and calls for action from the university.
The artists, seth cardinal dodginghorse and Glenna Cardinal, known as tÄ«ná gúyáńÃ, had seven pieces displayed at the Nickle Galleries. After learning about the event, the artists decided to remove their art in response to the use of residential schools as a topic for debate, which they found disrespectful and ignorant.
In a statement, the artists expressed their disappointment and concern over the event, emphasizing the emotional impact on Indigenous communities. They left a letter to the university along with sage for smudging in place of their artwork.
The response to the artists’ decision has been positive, both from the gallery and online community. In their letter, the artists also supported the demand to revoke the professor emeritus title of Tom Flanagan, one of the organizers of the event.
In an interview, Flanagan defended the event, stating that discussions were initially peaceful before escalating. He filed a complaint against two students for disrupting the event and disagreed with calls to remove his professor emeritus title.
The University of Calgary, in a statement, affirmed its commitment to truth and reconciliation, acknowledging the Indigenous community’s concerns. While not endorsing the views expressed at the event, the university emphasized the importance of free expression on campus.
Another artist, Holly Anghel, chose to keep her artwork in the gallery despite the controversy, believing in the importance of her presence as a student and artist on campus. Anghel expressed her resolve not to be silenced or pushed out amidst the ongoing discussions.
The university is reviewing its policies to ensure respectful engagement on campus following recent events. The artists’ decision to withdraw their art highlights the ongoing dialogue surrounding free speech, reconciliation, and Indigenous perspectives in academic settings.
