Baraza

Pikangikum

First Nation

A journey between Pikangikum First Nation and The Esplanade neighbourhood since 2018

Relationships ground us as individuals, families, and communities. The connection between The Esplanade community in Toronto’s St. Lawrence neighbourhood and Pikangikum First Nation began in 2018, when Jamii initiated an intra-provincial project involving local residents with ties to other communities across Ontario. Jamii’s first visit to Pikangikum, led by Asmita—an Esplanade resident and our ambassador—focused on forging connections.

Since then, we have collaborated annually with the Pikangikum Education Authority and Eenchokay Birchstick School on arts projects centered on youth, storytelling, and well-being. Notable highlights include a 2021 exhibition in The Esplanade showcasing the work of four Pikangikum photographers. In June 2023, Darwin Peters created a mural on the St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre in Toronto, while Morningstar Quill exhibited her photographic work in a local park.

In 2023 and 2024, Jamii worked with the Pikangikum community to create a series of video portraits featuring artists, community leaders, and Elders. This project emerged from the community’s expressed desire to document and share their stories.

In 2024, Jamii invited Leah Maddy King to exhibit her photographic work in our community. Her exhibit, Koshki'zi, was displayed in David Crombie Park from June 2024 and throughout the year. We also welcomed Amberlee King for a one-week residency on The Esplanade, where she connected with Jamii's family of painters. These opportunities were supported by the RBC Emerging Artists Program.

Over time, trust and mutual appreciation between our communities have deepened, and we are honoured to continue sharing the stories of Canada’s Indigenous peoples. Looking ahead, we are committed to sustaining these artistic collaborations through annual visits to Pikangikum and annual invitations for Pikangikum artists to The Esplanade. We believe these partnerships will continue to grow in impact, fostering greater understanding of Indigenous cultures and stories in Toronto while enriching artistic opportunities for the Pikangikum community.

A heartfelt thank you to the Ontario Arts Council for supporting this initiative since 2018.