Where the Water Meets is a self-directed, land-based residency for Indigenous artists who identify as Two-Spirit, trans, queer, non-binary, or otherwise gender-diverse. The program took place at Mnisiing, colonially known as Gibraltar Point Art Center, in Winter 2026 from March 30 to April 6.
This program was created and led by Anne Riley, with collaborative support in programming and facilitation from Lisa Myers. It emerged from seeing the lack of dedicated spaces within the art world and academia for 2SLGBTQ+ Indigenous artists to gather without institutional pressure and in the presence and guidance of Two-Spirit Elders.
The inaugural cohort brought together 12 artists alongside our Two-Spirit Elder in Residence, Ma-nee Chacaby. Together, they formed an intergenerational space grounded in co-learning, care, and relational practice. Open to emerging, mid-career, and established artists, the residency supports independent projects while nurturing community and connection.
The name Where the Water Meets reflects the shoreline as a site of convergence, a place of movement, relationship, and exchange. Participants were invited to bring their own understandings of water shaped by their languages, Nations, and teachings.
Rooted in Indigenous feminist approaches, the residency centers rest, reflection, and connection over output or performance, offering time away from institutional pressures. As facilitators, we embrace a broad understanding of what constitutes creative and cultural work. As Indigenous feminist artists, we recognize that much of this work takes place beyond traditional academic or institutional settings.
Stay tuned for updates about the next program!
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We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.
