The Witness Blanket Exhibit

Inspired by a woven blanket, this large‐scale art installation by Carey Newman is made from pieces of history – hundreds of items reclaimed from residential schools, churches, government buildings, and other cultural structures all across Canada.

Contributions to the Witness Blanket were donated by residential school survivors and their families, band offices, friendship centres and governments. Other items were reclaimed from former residential school sites. Those responsible for the school system – churches and the Canadian federal government – have also donated pieces for this installation as a gesture towards reconciliation.

More than 800 items from 77 communities were gathered for this artwork. They include letters, photos, stories, books, clothing, art and fragments of buildings.

The exhibit on display in The Village is one of two reproductions that have been created for offer to other venues, allowing its Stories and messages to continue being shared. The original Witness Blanket is currently housed at the CMHR awaiting installation in its core galleries. In these wood‐framed reproductions, direct‐printed wood panels take the place of the original artifacts and interior frames.  

The exhibit will be housed in The Village at the Education Centre Campus from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday, until February 16th.

Free parking will be available for visitors to the exhibit in lots 8 and 5 starting January 22.

For any additional questions please reach out to info.village@canadorecollege.ca