Throughout 2023, Open Space will present a series of exhibitions, residencies and events under the title Wayfinders, the ones we breathe with. This series recalls ancient way finding practices utilizing the stars, wind, water and land markers to find paths across the sea and, through the work of artists from coastal neighbours and nations across the Pacific Ocean, considers intertwined histories, practices, migrations and contemporary lives of adjacent homelands. Breathing together across the shared ocean in cultural, environmental and molecular exchange.

This elongated program simultaneously nurtures the relationships that led to the development of this series and leaves space for the project to organically and intuitively build outward with interdisciplinary programming and collaboration, looking locally to communities on Vancouver Island and across to coastal neighbours. This intentional move recognizes the depth and transfer of knowledge as activated through relationality—essential in breaking open western colonial strongholds within exhibition making, de-centering singular narratives within art and curation, and implementing responsibility beyond personal subjectivity and worldview. Such relationality further extends to the land, the cosmos and ideas, while underscoring accountability and the dynamism by which learning takes place (Shawn Wilson 2008). As the curatorial lead for Wayfinders, I am tracing transoceanic through lines and interwoven modes of practice by way of conversations, connections and deep listening. Residencies and artist projects with Josh Tengan, Camille Georgeson-Usher, Tanya Lukin Linklater and Paul de Guzman anchor the series.

Toby Lawrence, Curator