Currently based in Guelph, Ontario, Emily Laurent Henderson is a Kalaaleq (Greenlandic Inuk) and Settler curator and writer. A 2020 University of British Columbia graduate in Anthropology, Emily’s work and writing centres Inuit and Indigenous self-determination in the arts. Her writing has appeared in titles such as the Inuit Art Quarterly, Azure, Studio Magazine, and more. Her debut collection of poetry, "Hold Steady my Vision", was published in 2024 by Publication Studio Guelph.

When Emily Henderson got her first museum job—working in a gift shop—she thought it was the first step towards her dream of being a museum curator. And she was right - only her dream was so much closer to being realised than she expected. She thought it might take decades, but six years later, she's an Associate Curator of Indigenous Art at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection with a once in a lifetime exhibition opening tomorrow.

"I applied for jobs I was in no way qualified for," Emily laughs, revealing her unconventional early career strategy. Her fearless approach opened doors at the Inuit Art Quarterly, Indigenous Curatorial Collective, and Art Gallery of Ontario before landing at the McMichael, where she's currently preparing to open "Worlds on Paper," an exhibition featuring 215 drawings by 40 Kinngait (formerly Cape Dorset) artists.

The groundbreaking show explores how Inuit artists documented their rapidly changing world between 1959-1990—a period of profound transition as communities were moved from semi-nomadic existence to permanent settlements. What makes this exhibition possible is the recent digitisation of all 90,000 drawings, creating unprecedented access to works that were often filtered out by Southern tastes and editorial committees.

Henderson shares how Indigenous sovereignty in the arts (giving Indigenous people control over their own representation) is the "crux" of everything she does. She elaborates on what Indigenous sovereignty can look like in institutions that were built to further colonize.

For aspiring curators, Emily offers practical wisdom: apply widely regardless of qualifications, seek publishing opportunities, and embrace mentorship. Her journey proves there's no single path to curatorial work—just the courage to start somewhere and grow through continuous learning.

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Mariana Muñoz-Gomez wears many hats. Gomez is a Winnipeg-based artist, writer, zine maker and curator who intricately weaves personal narratives with collective histories in their lens-based practice. In today’s episode, Gomez shares what it is like to work for yourself as an artist interested in exploring many directions.

Gomez’ exploration of identity, colonialism, and capitalist structures is not just academic; it's a deeply personal reflection on individual and collective histories that have impacted many people around the world. Gomez’ work urges us to reflect on their own connections to place and history. By employing a variety of media—ranging from photography to zines—Gomez examines how art can aid memory and resistance, offering new perspectives on our shared experiences.

During our discussion, Gomez shares the motivations behind their work and how they harness the power of art to question societal norms through a relational lens. The episode shines a spotlight on the role of the curator, where Gomez emphasizes the importance of representation and care for the artists involved, particularly BIPOC voices. Alongside this, Gomez reveals the discipline and organisation required to be a freelancer, sharing how the least glamorous parts of being an artist are almost as important as the art itself. They also offer fascinating insights into their recent curatorial projects and the journey of creating Carnation Zine, a zine uplifting marginalised artists.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how art can provoke thought and inspire action within communities while navigating the complexities of a creative career. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with Gomez’ journey as they pave the way for meaningful dialogues in contemporary art. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation!

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In today’s episode of the Artalogue, Madison chats with Yayoi Shionoiri, VP of External Affairs and General Counsel at Powerhouse Arts. Coming to her legal practice with a unique blend of art history knowledge and legal expertise, Shionoiri has spent over two decades championing artists and navigating intricate legal challenges in contemporary art and estate management. From her beginnings in corporate law to her influential roles at institutions like the Guggenheim Museum and Artsy, Shionoiri‘s career journey has much to learn from for aspiring lawyers and artists alike!

We discuss how her undergraduate research into the conceptual art and subsequent trial of Genpei Akasegawa prompted her to learn more about and eventually help artists navigate the limits of artistic and free expression.

Shionoiri also shares her personal journey from corporate law to the niche field of art law, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with pursuing a unique career path. Her experiences in the vibrant art scenes of Tokyo and New York provide a comparative outlook on how cultural nuances shape artistic innovation and the laws around it.

Aspiring art lawyers will find her advice invaluable—emphasizing the importance of mastering legal fundamentals while balancing a deep understanding of the art world. Shionoiri‘s interest in the intersection of copyright, AI, and creativity in today's digital age raises crucial questions about the future of art and law. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that promises to inspire artists, lawyers, and art enthusiasts alike.

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For artist Ophelia Arc, early memories are not just echoes of the past but a rich source of inspiration for her artistic practice. In today's episode, Arc takes us through her evolving artistic practice where memories blend seamlessly with Arc's interest in theory. Arc showcases how her experiences at the Rhode Island School of Design, particularly through niche courses and critique, have fuelled her understanding of art in a broader and interdisciplinary context.

Transitioning from academia to the commercial art world is an adventure filled with unpredictable encounters and collaborations. She shares her insights on making these transitions smoother, emphasizing the powerful relationships with curators and collectors that have shaped her path. We explore the enduring value of keeping a sketchbook and active drawing practice, not just as a tool for artistic growth but as an archive of personal evolution. Arc's work can be found on Instagram and her website, offering a window into her vibrant world.

Ophelia Arc’s latest group show, "Tomorrow is Already Behind Us", opens on Friday, January 17 2025 at the New York Lyles and King gallery.

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Today on the Artalogue, I chat with Chloe Chafe, a dynamic creative director from Winnipeg, who takes us through their unconventional journey through the art world. Raised around artists and spurred by inspiring teachers, Chloe found their true calling in high school. With an eye for innovation, Chloe co-founded Synonym Art Consultation, a venture that reshapes the way Winnipeg has thought about public art by bringing creativity to unexpected corners like local restaurants and businesses. This path wasn't easy—Chloe shares the balancing act of managing a service industry job, art school, and a budding business until Synonym Art Consultation blossomed into a full-time passion.

Chloe's story isn't just about art; it's about fostering community and trust within it. From navigating the nitty-gritty of public art project management to reinventing art experiences with technology like augmented reality, Chloe's insights are as colourful and complex as the murals they have facilitated. We explore the Wall-to-Wall Graffiti Art Festival, Mentorship Programs, grant writing and accessible education. Moreover, Chloe discusses the importance of core values like respect and accountability in building spaces where artists can create bold and meaningful pieces. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the transformative power of art in public spaces and the relationships that sustain it.

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Today on the Artalogue, we’re exploring the fascinating world of ancient Roman art with Jacqueline Giz, a passionate PhD student from the University of Michigan. Jacqueline shares her unique journey from aspiring lawyer to art historian, initially sparked by her parents' love for art and Roman history. Discover how her childhood curiosity evolved into a professional pursuit, focusing on the the lesser studied art and artefacts of the ancient Mediterranean. We chat candidly about picking a university that’s right for you, with Giz elaborating on her choice to study at the University of Michigan, partially influenced by the Kelsey Museum's exceptional collection.

Giz also discusses transformative power of museums in making history accessible and engaging. Museums, she explains, are not just repositories of the past but vibrant spaces that can offer profound experiences to diverse audiences. We chat about the challenges of curating archaeological objects and the importance of providing meaningful context that resonates with contemporary viewers. From crafting impactful curatorial labels to engaging visitors outside traditional methods, Giz shares her insights and experiences in bridging the gap between ancient artifacts and modern audiences.

With Gladiator 2 being on everyone’s mind, we elaborate on the often-misunderstood Roman Empire and its portrayal in popular media. While movies like the second Gladiator film can ignite interest, they also risk distorting historical narratives.

Speaking about the academic side of the art world, Giz offers her perspective on overcoming imposter syndrome, encouraging listeners to embrace their achievements amidst the academic pressure. Her reflections provide both a window into the ancient world and an inspiring message of self-belief. Join us for a captivating episode that blends art, history, and personal growth, offering a fresh perspective on the ancient Mediterranean and its relevance today.

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Step into the captivating world of tattooing with our esteemed guest, Paul Booth, a legendary tattoo artist celebrated for his dark and provocative style. Paul tells us about his career journey from admiring the tattoos of a classmate to opening a 3 story tattoo shop and gallery in Manhattan. Paul opens up about his unique style evolution, rooted in the bold use of black and gray shading.

Explore the profound journey of tattoos as keepsakes that memorialize pivotal life moments and personal histories. Paul shares heartwarming anecdotes about tattoos that symbolize cherished relationships and personal milestones, such as his face tattoo designed by his mentor. Booth’s artistic expression transcends the skin by embracing music, clay, and even the digital domain of AI design.

Amidst tales of artistic triumphs and challenges, Paul reflects on the division many see between tattooing and fine art. His invaluable advice for aspiring artists underscores the importance of genuine artistry over ego, inspiring them to dedicate themselves to their craft. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the enduring power of creativity and the limitless potential of art as a transformative force.

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When I asked Bill Powers, owner of Half Gallery (who also happens to be an avid tennis player) what similarities could be drawn between the art world and the game, he replied "I guess sometimes people may pay more attention to their outfits than their backhand."

Throughout our conversation, Bill Powers, the owner of Half Gallery, serves some keen insight from his many years in the Art World. Starting as a culture journalist writing for magazines and esteemed publications like the New York Times, Powers pivoted to becoming a gallerist when the moment arose. "Why not me?", he thought. He now contributes to Muse, Purple and Autre magazines. He now has two books available through Junior Publishing, Glissando and Early 21st Century Art.

Alongside discussions about his career and gallery, we discuss the changing Art World and what the future holds. We chat about the shifting nature and relevancy of art criticism and the growing influence of market dynamics on artistic expression. From the recent spectacle of Maurizio Cattelan's "Comedian" at the recent Sotheby's auction to the disruptive force of NFTs, we try to untangle and understand how commercial success is reshaping taste and connoisseurship. Bill reflects on the delicate balance of business with creativity. His story is a compelling glimpse into the ways in which different aspects of the Art World converge.

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Madison Beale, Host
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