I coordinated an Ambassador Adventure to the Decolonization Tour at the Belkin Gallery, a 90-minute walk showcasing Indigenous artwork that highlights issues of place, space, and identity. The tour covered artworks by prominent Indigenous artists such as Brent Sparrow Jr., Ellen Neel, Hock E Aye Vi Edgar Heap of Birds, James Hart, and Kayám̓ Richard Campbell, among others. The group engaged in discussions around settler colonialism, decolonization, reconciliation, and the historical context of UBC’s Vancouver campus, which sits on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) people. My role included organizing ambassador schedules, liaising with the gallery staff, and ensuring the tour's smooth execution.
Belkin Art Gallery Ambassador Adventure
Organized and led an Ambassador Adventure to UBC’s Decolonization Tour at the Belkin Gallery, exploring Indigenous art and the themes of settler colonialism, reconciliation, and decolonization.
What did I learn?
This experience deepened my understanding of Indigenous art and its role in addressing social and political issues. I gained insights into decolonization processes and the importance of reflecting on history from multiple perspectives. The tour emphasized the significance of UBC's location on Musqueam territory and helped me appreciate how art can serve as a tool for reconciliation and dialogue.
What did I achieve?
- Successfully organized a meaningful and educational event that provided ambassadors with valuable insights into Indigenous art and the themes of reconciliation and decolonization.
- Facilitated discussions that connected ambassadors to critical social and political issues, broadening their understanding of UBC’s cultural and historical context.