By Nancy Mattes (BA '89, MEDI, '21), Arts Advancement
“I think it’s brilliant,” said Peter Woolstencroft, a retired political science professor and donor of the Longhouse Labs Project. “The reciprocal approach is very positive. It’s the right model for the future,” he added.
Acclaimed artist and project donor, Rex Lingwood remarked: “Paying the artists and paying them well is an important part of the Longhouse Labs. However, it is the whole package that makes it worthwhile. It’s founded on good thinking, and by someone who knows what Indigenous artists need.”
Logan MacDonald is the Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Art and director of the Longhouse Labs. He understands inequities experienced by Indigenous, queer and disability communities, and is using that perspective to challenge Waterloo to create space for Indigenous leadership in ways that are respectful and with reciprocity.
In the fall of 2022, MacDonald organized two residencies as a proof of concept for the prestigious Longhouse Fellowships. Celebrated Nunatsiavut carver, Billy Gauthier, was the first Indigenous artist to take part. “The students got so much out of talking to Billy and watching him demonstrate his technique,” noted Woolstencroft. “But it was mutually beneficial.”
Despite having no formal training, Gauthier said it was great to feel connected to an education system and to feel like a leader. “Back home, all we talk about is fishing and the weather,” said Gauthier. “It’s nice to be able to talk to people who are interested in my art.”
One of the exciting aspects of the Longhouse Labs is a museum-quality archival lab that will provide greater access to the vast treasury of ancestral objects that are housed in institutions. Instead of traveling to places where they might feel uncomfortable, the Longhouse Fellows will be able to safely access material cultures in the lab across the hall from their art studios. “The archival lab is just more good thinking,” said Lingwood.
Students participate in a workshop with artist in residence Billy Gauthier
The vision for the Longhouse Labs is resonating with foundations. Sarah Hunter is President of the K.M. Hunter Charitable Foundation. “We funded the Longhouse Labs because it was one of the most exciting and comprehensive proposals we received in 2022 related to Indigenous initiatives,” she said. Hunter also appreciated meeting Professor MacDonald in person. “That got me really interested in the project,” she added. “In my opinion, it's all about the relationships you develop that help build successful partnerships.”
Corporations are getting behind the plan to build an education system that includes Indigenous self-determination, culture, and knowledge. “We’re honoured to support the work of the Longhouse Labs Project and applaud the leadership team working to make this vision a reality,” said Wawanesa’s Vice President of Culture, Community and Communications, Selena Hinds. “Together with the University of Waterloo, we share a commitment to making our community a better place, and we know students and their Indigenous mentors will benefit from the learning, research, artistic creation and curation that will happen in this welcoming and supportive environment.”
Sharing knowledge and artistic ideas exemplifies the spirit of Reconciliation and builds on the hope for mutually productive relationships, observes Woolstencroft. “I am heartened that the University of Waterloo has taken such an important leadership role in responding to the TRC’s call to ensure equitable Indigenous contributions to the cultural life of our country.”
It takes a village to raise a child, and this saying holds true for the Longhouse Labs. Everyone can play a role in its success, and we invite you to join Logan MacDonald in his efforts to create new pathways for Indigenous artists.
Longhouse Labs thanks Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, the K.M. Hunter Charitable Foundation, Waterloo Region Community Foundation (Musagetes, Racial Equity, Anonymous Funds), Peter Woolstencroft, Good Foundation, Rex Lingwood, and others for their generous support.