Whose stories are we reading and hearing in the books and media that we consume? Learn about how multiple stories, and in particular, Indigenous stories, can shape the way we view histories and change the way we think about cultures. Inspired by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s TED Talk, Jill will explore how storytellers find their authentic cultural voices and the critical misunderstandings that can occur when we only hear a single story.

Participants will be guided through images of works in MOA’s Indigenous art collection and the words of their makers, including Susan Point, John Marston, Tracey Williams, Marianne Nicolson, Bill Reid and many more. Together we will challenge our assumptions and stereotypes of Indigenous histories and communities through exploring these works and artists.

Artists whose works and knowledge we draw from and will discuss in this webinar include: Susan Point, Musqueam; John Marston, Coast Salish; Tracey Williams, Squamish; Marianne Nicolson, Kwakwaka’wakw; Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas, Haida; Ian Reid, Heiltsuk; Mikael Willie, Kwakwaka’wakw; Bill Reid, Haida; Willy White, Tsimshian; Peter Morin, Tahltan; Tania Willard, Secwepemc.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s TED Talk will be screened as part of the webinar at 11 am, or you can choose watch it on your own beforehand (watch it here), then join the webinar for Jill’s presentation and discussion at 11:25 am.

Program schedule

Screening of Adichie’s TED Talk | 11–11:25 am
Presentation by Jill Baird | 11:25 am–12 pm
Follow-up discussion and question period | 12–12:30 pm

Register on Zoom (link below), or watch the webinar live on YouTube.
The webinar will also be recorded and shared online at a later date.

Photo: IMICH SIIYEM, 1997, by Susan Point. MOA Collection 2625/1. Photo by Derek Tan.