ORNAMENTUM LECTURE SERIES: BITING TOWARDS OUR FUTURE WITH DIANE BLUNT

Many have not heard of the ancient and rare art form of birch bark biting, with its rich history rooted in the Indigenous cultures of North America including the Ojibway, Chippewa, and Cree. The process involves biting the birch bark to create various designs and patterns with tooth marks. Every piece is unique, and when finished, there is always a thrill when the light shines through it and delicate designs appear. Historically, these birch bark biting patterns would have once been used as templates for beadwork, to tell stories, or for artistic expression. In this presentation, Diane Blunt will share her birch bark biting processes, her work, and her hopes to keep this art form alive well into the future.

Not sure you can attend live? We've got you covered! A video recording of this presentation will be made available to all those who reserve/purchase tickets.

BIOGRAPHY

Diane Blunt is an artist and a member of the Kawartha Nishnawbe Nation. A recent BFA Graduate in Visual Arts at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, she has been the recipient of multiple scholarships, awards, and artist residencies. The nature of her work explores the life, history, and bark of the birch tree through drawing, painting, and material practices.

Images:

Dragonfly, Diane Blunt

Where there is heart there is home, Diane Blunt

Where there is heart there is home (detail), Diane Blunt

Diane Blunt (headshot), photo credit: Rita Taylor, Banff Centre 2023