In the spring of 2025, Jamii collaborated with emerging photographer Kurri Quill from Pikangikum First Nation to create Mong'Kah'Job, a photo exhibition unveiled in David Crombie Park on June 21, 2025, as part of Jamii’s Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration and Jamii’s Emerging Artist Program, supported by the RBC Foundation.

As part of the project, Kurri joined Jamii for a week-long residency in Toronto in June 2025. During this time, he participated in the exhibition unveiling and took part in a series of one-on-one mentorship sessions with local photographers, fostering artistic exchange, dialogue, community connection, and creative growth. This experience contributed to shape his artistic practice in meaningful and lasting ways.

With Jae Yang, Kurri explored photography through simplicity and observation. Using basic point-and-shoot cameras, they walked through the St. Lawrence Market area capturing moments that “caught our attention.” Kurri shared, “I was kind of struggling a little, but it was fun. I wished we had more time - he made photography fun.” Jae encouraged him to begin a “Project 52” challenge to develop intentional storytelling. Jae reflected, “I noticed how naturally Kurri gravitated toward street signage and textures - he was already developing his own style. I learned as much from him as he did from me.”

Gillian Mapp met with Kurri twice, focusing on portrait work and editing. She introduced him to film photography, lending him her own camera. Kurri said, “It was quite the challenge, but I realized I want a film camera of my own!” Gillian shared, “We explored how editing shapes narrative. Introducing film allowed Kurri to slow down and become more intentional with each shot.”

With Murphy Owusu, the focus was artistic identity and confidence. Murphy encouraged him to remain rooted in portrait photography: “It made sense to me - my love for portraits brought me here.”

Laura Dittman expanded Kurri’s technical and creative experimentation, introducing him to an 85mm lens and playful effects using glass. “It made me fall in love with that lens,” Kurri noted.

Across all four mentorships, Kurri found inspiration, encouragement, and artistic clarity. The mentors, in turn, were moved by his openness, curiosity, and growing strength as a storyteller.

Kurri photographic exhibit is displayed in David Crombie Park as part of this project us to learn more about Indigenous culture and offers a window into the lives and spirit of Pikangikum First Nation.

Isorine Marc, Jamii’s Artistic and Executive Director says “Curating this exhibition with Kurri has been a delight. I’ve been deeply impressed not only by his photographic talent, but also by his clarity of vision and gift with words. His work speaks volumes. It calls on us to see the people of Pikangikum - individuals of all ages navigating their own life journeys - while celebrating their culture and way of being. Kurri’s message is a quiet yet powerful invitation to grow closer, to bridge gaps in understanding, and to honour the dignity of each story captured through his lens.”

For Kurri, this photo exhibit is important “because it allows me to connect with diverse stories and experiences, promoting empathy and understanding through powerful visual narratives. To see the world in new ways, and to appreciate the beauty and complexity of human experience. By sharing these photos, we can build bridges of understanding and foster a more compassionate and connected world.”

Thank you to the RBC Foundation for supporting Jamii’s Emerging Artist program.