Indigenous Curation Update: Waawaate Fobister

Curatorial Statement

Waawaate Fobister 

Kick & Push 2020

Welcome to The Kick & Push Festival 2020! What turbulent times we have been going through this year, which has put the world into a standstill. In extraordinary times like these, naturally as an artist I tend to think and ponder in what it all means. This year we are doing it differently, because of Covid–19 we are asking those questions. How do we experience live performance in times of isolation and social distancing? The mandate of Kick & Push has that flexibility, because it is about evolving. I am looking forward to digest the work and experience the different perspectives of the artists that will fill the spaces around Kingston in the coming weeks. 

I am very honoured to return as curator to The Kick & Push Festival 2020. Last year, we were fortunate to bring in two Indigenous Works’ Paddle Song by Dinah Christie with Tom Hill, performed by Haudenaunee artist Cheri Maracle. and Tales of an Urban Indian by Darrel Dennis, performed by Anishinaabe artist Craig Lauzon. The new position of Curator of Indigenous Programming, it was important to me to bring in the voices that reflect the voices that come this territory. I am excited to continue to bring in that Indigenous voice and perspective. 

In most Anishinaabe communities, like Grassy Narrows, we lived off the river system, families within our communities had their own islands. We were still community, but had our own space. The practice of self-isolation was already in place within the community. Kingston has done very well, during this pandemic, this community is set up with social distancing already in place. I feel there are a lot of things that aligned for this festival to continue. We will take precautionary actions and be diligent about our safety. I also believe in taking a leap of faith and trust. In all these challenges and dreams, I hope you enjoy The Kick & Push Festival 2020.

Yours Truly – Gi - Debwe, 
Waawaate Fobister 
Indigenous Curator 
The Kick & Push Festival