The Spirit of My Quilts: Strength, Comfort and Healing in Artistic Expression

Join Anishinaabe artist and quiltmaker Minaajimo-Kwe/Alice Olsen Williams for this in-gallery presentation about her quilts.

Sunday, June 1, 2025

Close-up of a flower on a quilt. Each of the petals is a different flowery fabric, while at the centre of the flower is fabric onto which is printed the face of an Indigenous woman in profile. Partially obscured.

Photo: CMHR, Annie Kierans

Event details

Cost:
Free event; registration requested
Location:
Level 6 gallery
Schedule:

Sunday, June 1, 2025
Schedule: 
Doors open at 1 p.m.
Program is from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Language and Accessibility:
This event will be primarily in English. The Museum strives to be accessible to all.

As an act of artistic expression and a way of sharing experiences, quilting can bring healing, companionship and comfort.

Celebrate the start of National Indigenous History Month by joining us in gallery to hear from Anishinaabe artist and quiltmaker Minaajimo‐Kwe, whose English name is Alice Olsen Williams. For one day only, Alice will display her quilts, which blend Anishinaabe traditions with reflections on social issues and human rights stories.

Through her quilts, Alice speaks to her dual heritage. (Anishinaabe and European). Her work combines the Anishinaabe spiritual teachings of her mother with the North American quilting style created by those of European descent as her father was.

Following this talk, the audience will have the chance to engage in a Q and A with Alice and explore the works she has on display. 

About the Artist 

Alice Olsen Williams is known for her quilts that speak to contemporary social issues. Her distinctive style is grounded in the traditional skills of the beadwork and sewing designs of the Anishinaabe women and the cultural symbols and themes they use. Ms. Williams has been quilting since 1980. Her works have been displayed in multiple museums and universities including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. 

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