This two-channel film by artist Sky Hopinka is based on the tale of the four water spirits known as Island Weights. In the creation story of Ho-Chunk, the artist’s home nation, the spirits are placed at the Earth’s cardinal points, ensuring that its rotation is not chaotic. Ho-Chunk, now known as Wisconsin, translates as “People of the Great Voice” and stretches from Red Banks to Trempealeau, and from Minneapolis to Milwaukee. The film is divided into 5 parts — Wijirawaséwe (Island Weights), yoiréreginarere (the west), rek’úhuhíra (the south), h??boguominàgara (the east), siniwagúregin?gere (the north) — and follows an individual as he recounts his journey along the boundaries of Ho-Chunk lands. Visually, the viewer is drawn from the tumultuous waves of the Mississippi to serene forests, tranquil lakes, enormous shopping malls, earthen effigies and Ho-Chunk relics. The narrator is not only looking for the spirits, but also wishes to honor them.

The presentation of this installation is made possible with the support of OBORO - Centre d'artistes and is part of the retrospective Sky Hopinka : Redefining Potential Territories.

Adress: 4001, Berri Street, Space 301, Montreal, H2L 4H2

Schedule :
Nov. 22nd | 12 h — 17 h
Nov. 23rd | 12 h — 19 h
Nov. 24th | 12 h — 17 h
Nov. 25th | 12 h — 17 h

This activity is free and is available in English and in French.

Presented in collaboration with Oboro