About the Exhibition

“Learning Through Art: An Introduction to Indigenous Cultural Practices, Exhibition”

An Exhibition by Kathlene Eley, Marcel Charlebois, Mel Bartel, and Bradley J. Reinhardt

Reception: Saturday September 12th, 2026 | 2pm – 4pm

For more information, contact gallery@riverdalehub.ca.

Following eight workshops held from April through June, led by Indigenous artists Kathlene Eley, Marcel Charlebois, Mel Bartel, and Bradley J. Reinhardt, this exhibition brings together the artists’ own work alongside pieces created by workshop participants.

Through art-making, and conversation, the workshops created opportunities to explore Indigenous artistic practices, knowledge, resilience, and the experiences of belonging. The exhibition celebrates the creativity and learning that emerged from this meaningful exchange between artists and participants.

We are also honoured to welcome Diane Montreuil, a Métis Algonquin artist and Knowledge Keeper, who will lead a smudging ceremony as part of the opening. Diane’s own artistic practice draws deeply on the teachings of her ancestors and explores identity, heritage, resilience, and the enduring strength of Indigenous traditions. A selection of Diane’s paintings will also be on display during this exhibition.

We invite you to come experience the artwork, meet the artists and participants, and celebrate the culmination of this inspiring program with us.

We would also like to sincerely thank the Canada Council for the Arts for its generous support of this program and for helping make this meaningful opportunity possible.