This week, children will discover the world of Kent Monkman, one of the most celebrated First Nations painters of his generation. A socially engaged artist, he uses traditional Western painting techniques to tell the stories of his people, who have often been marginalized or erased in official histories.

Each of his works conveys powerful narratives, highlighting past events while sometimes playing with satirical codes. Monkman overturns traditional academic painting hierarchies, placing Indigenous presence, voices, and stories at the center, where official history has too often left them in the shadows.

Inspired by his work, children will explore the visual language of traditional painting while imagining and telling their own stories through their creations.
This week invites children to talk about history with care, to share and pass on stories, and to develop their imagination, creativity, and understanding of diverse cultural perspectives.