An exhibition celebrating Indigenous artists and musicians driven and inspired to bring about awareness and social change is underway at Studio Bell featuring five new contributors from different generations and regions across Canada.
Supported by the TD Bank Group, The Speak Up! exhibition, which debuted in 2019, reopened on June 17, 2026 at Studio Bell featuring a fresh selection of notable Indigenous artists.
Curator David McLeod says the exhibit is grounded in recognizing the artists whose influence goes above sales and awards.
“The vision of the exhibition is rooted in recognition, McLeod said. “These are heroes who sung and their voices made social change and also opened up pathways to inspire next generation artists.”
The exhibition debuted in 2019 and now highlights over 36 artists from First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities. Through storytelling, people can learn about who these artists are and how they work to preserve culture, challenge stereotypes from the past and present and inspire generations after them to continue.
This year, the event featured a dress worn by Andrea Menard during a live performance of her one-woman musical The Velver Devil, along with Tudjaat’s 1997 American Indian Film Institute Award for Best Song for “Kajusita (When my Ship Comes in),” a story about Inuit families being forced to relocate to the High Arctic.
McLeod said the exhibition differs from traditional events because artists are selected based on their community work and culture.
“It’s not saying this is the best artist, it’s saying these are artists that have inspired and brought about change,” McLeod said.
McLeod also notes the exhibit places importance on artists’ contributions to their communities rather than on prioritizing mainstream viewing.
“It’s not about album sales, right? Or ticket sales. It’s about changes within the community.”
McLeod feels that one of the most rewarding perspectives for the event is seeing young visitors learn about Indigenous history and community.
“They are walking away seeing Indigenous people in a positive light.”
While the exhibit strives to offer a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, he’s like to see there’s also a greater appreciation for their creativity and culture.
“I’m hoping that people leave the exhibition and they realize how transformative Indigenous music can be.”