Ogidakeh (to be put up, to stand high in the community, to be held with high esteem)
Inspired by the long-standing Anishinaabe Seven Fires Prophecy that predicted newcomers and the turmoil that was to be experienced by First Nations of Turtle Island, Ogidakeh was an opportunity to live the words of the seventh prophet, who envisioned a new generation to emerge, who will trace back the steps and find Elders to gather hidden knowledge. Predicting that this would not be easy as many Elders will have fallen asleep, it is an important task as it will lead us to choosing between a path of materialism and destruction for all of Earth’s people, or an eighth and eternal fire of peace and harmony.
The artist invited loved ones in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, Treaty One Territory, to gather atop of a hill, close to Creator and overlooking the surrounding land, to sing and dance for those of the past, of today, and of future generations. The group, consisting of children, youth, adults and elders, both feminine and masculine energy, included playing drum and rattle, singing the “The Strong Women’s Song” credited to the Anishinabe kwewag who experienced solitary confinement in the Prison For Women in Kingston, Ontario during the 1970’s. Alongside, a jingle dress dancer shares her healing and prayers, and a fancy shawl dancer resembling a butterfly, represent spirits of loved ones past. Miigwetch Ogichidaakwe Gookoomisinaan Mizewakamig Ikwe (Mother Earth Who is a Warrior Woman) for her guidance and teachings.
Annie Beach is a visual artist, born, based and rooted in Winnipeg, Manitoba, currently residing in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, Treaty One Territory. Beach is Cree / Saulteaux /Ukrainian, with relations from Peguis First Nation. She is a 2020 graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (Honours) from the University of Manitoba’s School of Art.
Beach has curated, designed, and executed upwards of thirty mural and public art projects throughout Winnipeg and Portage La Prairie, and works as art instructor with a variety of youth, community arts and cultural-based organizations, to engage and uplift others, to imagine a more vibrant, radiant, and tender world for the next seven generations. Beach was one of three recipients of the 2019 Hnatyshyn Foundation Emerging Artist prize, and most recently has shared a commission piece for the exhibition, Atautchikun | wȃhkôtamowin at the Remai Modern in Saskatoon, SK in 2021/22.
