Public Opening Reception: Nelson White
Date: Jan 20
7:00 pm
- 9:00 pm
Where: Level 3 Atrium
Opening Reception
Please join us for the opening reception for Nelson White: Tukien (Awaken)
Organized and circulated by the Confederation Centre Art Gallery and Grenfell Art Gallery, Memorial University of Newfoundland and LabradorCurators: Matthew Hills (Director/Curator, Grenfell Art Gallery, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador) and Pan Wendt (Curator, Confederation Centre Art Gallery)
Tukien (Awaken) maps a community of artists, creatives, activists, and leaders who defy simple and singular understanding of Indigeneity. Nelson White’s works celebrate the blending of the past, present, and future in contemporary Indigenous life – what he describes as “collective awakening.”
The reception will begin with an opening prayer by Elder Marjorie Muise, followed by special performances from Rebecca Sharr and the powwow drum group, Wape’k Muin.
Admission to the Art Gallery exhibitions will be free during the event. Refreshments will be available.
Image: detail of Reclaiming the Throne (Jordan Bennett, Artist, on Joey Smallwood’s Chair) (2019). Oil on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist.
Today's Events & Programs
Fishing for Cod
For centuries, fishing for cod has played a vital role in the lives of the peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador. Generations of fishing men, women, and children made use of the land and sea to sustain them and spent their lives “making fish.”
Join us each day for an interpretive guided tour in one of our galleries. From the story of the cod fishery to visiting a current art exhibition to a Family Rainbow Tour, there is something for everyone.
Each tour is approximately 30–40 minutes and is included in the cost of admission. Free for Rooms members.
Join architects Philip Pratt, Charles Henley, and Paul Blackwood of PHB Group for an insightful and engaging conversation about the design journey behind The Rooms. Perched above St. John's, this architectural landmark—clad in local granite and wood, brushed aluminum, and sweeping glass—offers a stunning presence and panoramic views of the city and harbour below.
This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from the minds behind the building’s bold and thoughtful design. Learn how vision, place, and materials came together to shape an enduring cultural icon.
Cost: $15 plus HST. 10% discount for Rooms members. Get your tickets online or by calling (709) 757-8090.