A new pilot project by shalan joudry and Sarah Prosper
Mawita’nej aqq amalkaltinej (Let’s gather and dance) aims to generate new ways to support, connect and create networks for Indigenous movement artists in Atlantic Canada.
This pilot project is led by shalan joudry and Sarah Prosper, with guidance from a steering committee including Chris Sanipass (Elder), Possesom Paul and Meagan Musseau. Together, they are engaging Indigenous artists to learn what is needed to enhance their dance/movement-based art practices, with the intention to provide Indigenous-led artistic development opportunities.
The project includes multiple ways for Indigenous movement artists to meet and share, including:
- Online survey
- Online sessions with shalan and Sarah via Zoom: May 22 + June 17 from 7 - 8PM
- The opportunity for one-on-one conversations with Sarah or shalan
- In-person activities at Petapan 2024, in Epekwitk/PEI from May 29 - June 2
To learn more about the project, and how you can engage as an Indigenous movement artist, visit the project website:
Mocean is pleased to provide administrative support for this project, alongside Nestuita'si Storytelling. Other partners include Mawi'Art and Raven Spirit Dance. Funding is provided by Canada Council of the Arts SEED funding and The Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, Heritage and Tourism.
Artistic Statement from Mocean Dance
As an artistic catalyst for professional dance in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia, Mocean is deeply invested in supporting projects that represent and celebrate the region’s richly pluralistic identity. Mawita’nej aqq amalkaltinej is part of an intentional effort to support Indigenous-led initiatives that strengthen and expand Indigenous movement-based practices in the Atlantic region, as an action towards the critical work of reconciliation and decolonization.
Our involvement in this project grows from our ongoing relationship with shalan joudry and Sarah Prosper, which has included creation, outreach, and mentorship projects over the past three years. Mocean’s support for this project involves sharing our administrative capacity and organizing experience.
