UWinnipeg, WAG appoint first-in-Canada indigenous arts position

The University of Winnipeg and Winnipeg Art Gallery have created a first-in-Canada to highlight indigenous art.

Julie Nagamhas been appointed as chairin History of Indigenous Arts in North America.Thejoint position between the university and WAG willinvolveresearch and teaching in the U of W's department of history as well ascuratorial and exhibition work at the gallery.

Nagam, who assumesthe post this week, is responsible for researching and developing a series of courses, exhibitions and related programs "designed to engage, enhance, and develop the area of Indigenous art," a news release stated.

My goals are to empower a new generation of students with knowledge of Indigenous artists, curators, activists, and scholarship.- JulieNagam

"This is an important first for Winnipeg and for Canadaand the WAG is proud to be spearheading this international, game-changing initiative with UWinnipeg,"WAG directorStephen Borys stated in the release.

Nagam comes to Winnipeg from the Indigenous Visual Culture Program and the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences atOCAD University (formerly the Ontario College of Art and Design).She holds a PhD from York University, as well as anMA (Native Studies) and a BA Honours (Women Studies and Art History) from the University of Manitoba.

"I foresee a pivotal moment for Winnipeg as a key site for contemporary Indigenous art," she states in the news release.

"My goals are to empower a new generation of students with knowledge of Indigenous artists, curators, activists, and scholarship, and to place the WAG and UWinnipeg as leading institutions that will showcase the strength of the Indigenous arts community within Manitoba and abroad."