Last year's exhibit Gaia set the bar extremely high | Photo by B. Shakyaver
As the curtains rise for the Huron Waves Music Festival 2024, the festival’s organizers have their work cut out for them living up to the expectation set last year, when a 20 foot balloon of the earth was suspended from the rafters of the Trivitt Memorial Anglican Church.
In an exclusive interview with John Miller, the festival’s Artistic Director, we gained insights into the vision behind this year’s festival.
The art piece central to the festival is a collection of 41 neckpieces, each representing a significant Canadian woman. Crafted by renowned goldsmith Donald Stewart, these pieces serve as a testament to the creativity and achievements of their subjects. From musical legends like Anne Murray to literary icons like Lucy Maud Montgomery, the neckpieces encapsulate the essence of Canadian excellence.
Accompanying this showcase is the Voyageur guitar, a symbol of Canadian heritage, including artifacts from iconic Canadian landmarks and figures like a piece of Pierre Trudeau’s canoe paddle, pieces of infamous hockey sticks, and even some wood from the Bluenose.
Presented by its originator, Jowi Taylor, the guitar is not only a piece of art in itself, but an homage to the rich tapestry that makes up Canada.
But the festival isn’t just about admiration from afar – Huron Waves is taking the guitar directly to the people, with educational programming at schools across the region, and the chance for students to play this remarkable piece of art.
Culminating the festivities is a performance by renowned Inuk singer Susan Aglukark, whose soulful melodies will echo through the Trivitt Auditorium on Indigenous People’s Day.
There will also be a neck piece crafted as a tribute to Mary Simon, on display for the first time at Huron Waves.
Mark your calendars, book your tickets for Huron Waves Music Festival 2024 – it kicks off on June 9th at Trivitt Memorial Anglican Church, in Exeter.
Written by: B. Shakyaver