The Khyber Centre for the Arts and EVERYSEEKER 2021 present...

Visual Artist Residency Exhibition featuring Aiden Gillis

Location: The Khyber Centre for the Arts (1880 Hollis St. map + access notes)

press 2021 [details for immediate release and distribution] -

Visit the painting "Asoqmakaqn," by Aiden Gillis, from June 21st - June 27th, 2021 in Khyber's window gallery!

Aiden Gillis, "Asoqmakaqn," 2021.
Oil paint on wood panel, 32 x 32 inches.
Courtesy of the artist.

Created by Aiden Gillis through the EVERYSEEKER residency at the Khyber Centre for the Arts, "Asoqmakaqn," is a reflection of what bridging can mean to him. Gillis took the route of painting to express awareness and communication through a cultural lens, to connect with his interest in wildlife painting and conceptual collage.

"When we (Mi’kmaw People) see an eagle, we take it as a sign. No matter where we are or what we’re doing, we gain an awareness that connects us to a bigger picture. The eagle is a messenger." - Aiden Gillis

Aiden Gillis is a visual artist based in Kjipuktuk (Halifax) on Mi’kma’ki (Mi’kmaq Territory) in Nova Scotia.

Of Mi’kmaw and French roots from Western Ktaqamkuk (Newfoundland), Gillis grew up primarily on Wəlastəkwewiyik (Maliseet) Territory in New Brunswick. His art practice often takes on the route of painting, drawing, and sewing, while exploring an interest in wildlife subject matter and representational themes of gender, cultural revitalization, and community empowerment.

Gillis completed a 2017 BFA majoring in Fine Art with a minor in Art History at NSCAD University in Halifax, NS. Currently working in arts education and curation at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, he also serves on the Board of Directors for the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre and an Executive Committee Member of the Canadian Art Gallery Educators.

This exhibition will be viewable in our window gallery at all hours of the day, and is located in Khyber's window gallery which is facing Hollis Street. It can be viewed by walking by on the sidewalk, or also by driving past.

See more of Aiden's artwork and follow his incredible practice!