Stamps Gallery is currently showcasing an exceptional exhibition titled “Kelly Church & Cherish Parrish: In Our Words, An Intergenerational Dialogue.” This exhibition highlights the profound work of two contemporary Indigenous artists, Kelly Church and Cherish Parrish, who have dedicated themselves to preserving the traditional Anishinaabe practice of black ash basketry in modern times. As a mother-daughter duo, Church and Parrish delve into themes such as the vital role of Native women as culture-keepers, the lasting impact of boarding schools, the significance of treaties, and the value of ancestral stories. Through their art, they challenge the dominant settler-colonial narrative of erasure and assimilation while celebrating the resilience, strength, and wisdom passed down by their elders.
Curated by Srimoyee Mitra and Zoi Crampton, this exhibition will be on display at Stamps Gallery, a part of the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design at the University of Michigan, until December 7.
Public Programs:
– Penny Stamps Speaker Series: Sustaining Traditions by Kelly Church
Date: September 19, 5:30–6:30pm
Venue: Michigan Theatre, 603 E. Liberty Street
Kelly Church will delve into how Indigenous teachings have been preserved and transmitted across generations, ensuring the continuity of basket-making traditions for present and future generations.
– Opening Reception and Q&A with Kelly Church & Cherish Parrish
Date: September 19, 6:30–8pm
Join us in celebrating the opening of “Kelly Church & Cherish Parrish: In Our Words, An Intergenerational Dialogue” and engage in a Q&A session with the artists following their presentation at the Stamps Speaker Series. Refreshments will be provided.
– Weaving Workshop Led by Kelly Church & Cherish Parrish
Date: September 20, 10–11:30am
Participate in a hands-on weaving workshop led by Church & Parrish, where you will create a woven mat out of paper while learning about traditional weaving techniques and the significance of basket gatherings in preserving Indigenous teachings. Limited spaces available, registration required.
– American Indian Boarding Schools — the Michigan Anishinaabe Experience
Date: October 5, 2–4pm
This panel discussion will shed light on the impact of American Indian boarding schools on the Great Lakes Anishinaabe community, featuring survivors sharing their stories to ensure that this chapter of history is never forgotten. Facilitated by esteemed professors from U-M and Michigan State University.
All programs are free and open to the public.
For more information, visit stamps.umich.edu.
This exhibition and its accompanying programs are made possible through the generous support of Michigan Humanities and the U-M Arts Initiative.
