Decolonizing The Institution: Discussion With Provocateurs


Date: Jun 15
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where: Theatre

Arranged by Mireille Eagan (Curator of Contemporary Art, The Rooms) and Matthew Hills (Director/Curator, Grenfell Gallery, Memorial University) Featuring Sally Wolchyn-Raab (Artistic Director, Eyelevel Gallery, NS), Logan MacDonald (Assistant Professor, Waterloo University, ON), and Kailey Bryan (Independent artist and curator, NL) Please join us for a group discussion as part of the Atlantic Provincial Art Gallery Association Conference in St. John's this year. The discussion pivots on three questions, with each presenter rotating the role of provocateur - to invite meaningful conversation about the nature (and future) of institutional practices. This event is just one of many events that will take place throughout the city from June 13th to 16th as part of the Atlantic Provincial Art Gallery Association Conference. The conference is co-organized by The Rooms with Eastern Edge Artist-Run Centre, St. Michael's Printshop, and Grenfell Gallery (Memorial University). The event is free to the public. For more information on the events visit: https://easternedge.ca/apaga-agapa-atlantis-2019/

Today's Events & Programs

2:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon with Gemma Hickey, renowned author, humanitarian, and architect of change. 

Gemma does not simply tell stories; they move systems. From quiet rooms to global stages, grassroots movements to halls of power, Gemma’s voice has challenged governments, confronted the Catholic Church, and amplified the rights and recognition of marginalized communities worldwide. Their art and advocacy rise from lived experience, razor-sharp insight, and a wit that disarms even as it demands attention.

In this candid conversation, Gemma reflects on childhood, gender fluidity, and a life lived beyond the boundaries others tried to impose. Anchored by the enduring love of their Nan, these stories trace a powerful arc; from vulnerability to resilience, silence to truth, survival to change, and show how one voice, spoken without fear or apology, can echo far beyond the room, changing lives, laws, and futures at home and beyond.

The event includes a live audience Q&A. Includes admission to the exhibition Erica Rutherford: Her Lives and Works.

Tickets: $12 plus HST. Free for Rooms members. Get your tickets online or by calling 709-757-8090.