A Chance to Discover Eco-Art
Advertorial: published through a promotional partnership with the Kelowna Art Gallery
Since the late 20th century, artists have been considering how their work could bring attention to ecological issues. This is readily apparent in Her Land: Perspectives in Eco-Art, an exhibition at the Kelowna Art Gallery in which nine women artists merged environmental activism, social commentary and innovative installation practices to challenge us to reconsider our relationship with the land. The exhibition ran from February 8 to May 11, 2025.
Articulate magazine connected with curator Christine May to find out more about the exhibition, its meaning and its impact.
ARTICULATE: How did you come up with the theme of women in the environmental art movement?
CM: Female artists have consistently led the charge in addressing pressing environmental issues through their creative practices, addressing issues like sustainability, Indigenous land rights and the connections between art and the natural world. I wanted to highlight these voices by bringing them together to spark meaningful discussions. I hope visitors found that the work in this exhibition not only celebrate how women are reshaping our relationship with the land, but also highlight how eco-art serves as a powerful tool for social change.
Why did you select these specific artists?
Each artist in this exhibition brings a unique perspective to the conversation on ecological sustainability, united by a shared vision of hope for the future. In addition to their thematic connection, I intentionally selected artists whose work spans diverse mediums—such as installation, video, performance and sculpture. I believe this diversity created a more dynamic and multifaceted exhibition, enriching the overall visitor experience. I also dedicated time to thoughtfully considering how each artist’s work would maintain visual continuity throughout the space and how the pieces would complement one another. Given that each of these artists plays a crucial role in shaping the ongoing dialogue about the future of our planet, their inclusion in this exhibition felt like a natural choice.
What are some highlights of the exhibition?
A key highlight of Her Land was Dana Claxton’s installation Dirt Worshipper, which challenges colonial narratives and their environmental impact. By reappropriating the once derogatory term “Dirt Worshipper,” Claxton transforms it into a symbol of empowerment. Through her powerful performance, she evokes the heartbeat of Mother Earth, challenging historical perceptions and redefining Indigenous identity, while reshaping our collective relationship to the land.
Another highlight was Annie Briard’s new installation Infinite Retreat, featuring towering 12-foot sculptures that invite reflection on time, change and environmental fragility. Visitors also had the unique opportunity to walk on artist Monique Martin’s screen-printed floorcloth Breathturn, surrounded by thousands of handmade butterflies. There was truly so much to experience!
Why would this exhibition appeal to people who live in the Columbia Basin?
Her Land explores themes that are deeply relevant to the Columbia Basin region. The Basin is a place with rich natural resources, and the exhibition invites viewers to think critically about how we relate to the land we inhabit. The works in this show, many of which were created in the BC interior, challenge us to rethink our relationship to the environment in both local and global contexts. It’s a chance to reflect on the beauty and fragility o
f this land and how we can contribute to its future.
What has feedback from visitors been like?
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Visitors have appreciated the opportunity to engage with work from established Canadian artists, showcased on a national scale and representing diverse regions across the country. Many have shared how the exhibition prompted them to reflect on their personal connection to the local environment, while also expressing their appreciation for the emotional depth and urgency of the artwork. Overall, the response has been one of deep reflection and meaningful engagement.
As curator, what makes you proudest about this exhibition?
I’m really proud of how Her Land brings together such a diverse group of artists, all of whom are creating work that speaks to both the personal and collective aspects of our environmental responsibility. I was lucky enough to lead a tour of the exhibition on opening day with many of the artists present, and witness firsthand how it sparked some really meaningful conversations about sustainability.
One of the artists in the exhibition shared with me that this was the first show she has been a part of that featured all women and was curated by a woman, and I was truly honoured to offer that experience. The show really was more than just a visual experience; it was intellectual and emotional, encouraging us all to reflect on our actions and the legacies we leave behind.
If someone missed seeing Her Land, what upcoming events can they look forward to instead?
While Her Land was only on view until May 11, we always have exciting exhibitions on at the Kelowna Art Gallery. The exhibition Ekow Nimako: Building Black Civilizations opened on May 24, which features a series of artworks that explore the empires and kingdoms of West Africa through a speculative lens. These artworks are made entirely of Lego bricks, so we have had some exciting adult and family events designed around this.
We are also planning new exhibitions that highlight the intersection of art, nature and social justice, so there will be plenty of opportunities to continue these conversations in the future.
In general, why should people from the Columbia Basin be interested in arts and culture happenings in the Okanagan Valley, and vice versa?
The Columbia Basin and the Okanagan Valley both have vibrant artistic communities that offer unique opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and reflection on shared issues. These regions share a deep connection to the land, and the arts play a vital role in exploring and strengthening that bond. For example, the Okanagan is home to internationally renowned artists like Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller, while the Kootenays is home to Lou Lynn, a Governor General’s Award winner in Visual & Media Arts. These thriving communities have much to offer one another, and the arts provide the perfect avenue to foster mutual learning and understanding.
To learn more about exhibitions at the Kelowna Art Gallery, or to discuss submitting your own work for consideration, contact the curatorial coordinator at aidan@kelownaartgallery.com.
