kisiskâciwani-sîpiy - A drawing session and picnic with Coda Girvan
Join Ociciwan Contemporary Art Centre for an afternoon of drawing, conversation, and shared making with Cree artist Coda Girvan at ÎNÎW River Lot 11. Beginning with a short artist talk and community picnic, participants will spend time sketching the surrounding landscape before coming together to create a collaborative artwork inspired by the site.
Through observation, reflection, and mark-making, this gathering invites participants to slow down and deepen their relationship with this significant cultural place. Individual drawing sessions will provide space for quiet observation and personal reflection, while the collaborative artwork will encourage participants to share ideas and respond collectively to the landscape. Rather than focusing on technical skill, this workshop explores drawing as a way of paying attention and engaging with place through careful looking.
This gathering takes place at ÎNÎW River Lot 11, an important cultural site within the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Participants will spend the afternoon observing, drawing, sharing a meal, and creating together in relationship with the land and one another.
This free workshop is part of kisiskâciwani-sîpiy, Ociciwan's land-based workshop series exploring the North Saskatchewan River through art, conversation, and community. Space is limited to 20 participants. Please register on Eventbrite to reserve your spot.
When: Friday, August 28, 2026, 2:00–5:00 PM
Where: ÎNÎW River Lot 11
Register here, limited spots available!
——
Coda Girvan is a Cree visual artist based in amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton). Working primarily through drawing, painting, and mural-making, his practice explores abstraction and the reduction of organic forms to their essential shapes. Drawing serves as both a creative practice and a way of building relationships with place and community. His work has been exhibited in nâpêhkâsowinowâk at the Art Gallery of Alberta and can be found in murals throughout Edmonton, including projects created with iHuman Youth Society.
——
Ociciwan is pleased to present kisiskâciwani-sîpiy, a series of land-based workshops taking place throughout the summer and autumn in Edmonton's River Valley. Across a number of sessions, participants are invited to gather with artists, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers. kisiskâciwani-sîpiy drives connection through walks, conversations, and creative activities that deepen our relationships with the river and the land. We look forward to sharing these experiences with you!
——
Accessibility notes: This program takes place outdoors at ÎNÎW River Lot 11. Participants will be seated on the land for portions of the workshop and are encouraged to bring a blanket or portable chair if desired. Please wear weather-appropriate clothing, bring water, and be prepared for changing outdoor conditions. A picnic will be provided.
Parking & Transit: Limited parking is available near ÎNÎW River Lot 11. The site is also accessible by bicycle, on foot, and by public transit. Registered participants will receive detailed directions and parking information prior to the workshop.
This project is funded through the FIRE Grant Program (Funding Indigenous Resurgence in Edmonton) from the Edmonton Heritage Council.