Lost in Translation: Artist Talk by Oo Kierstead
November 14, 2024
Join us on Thursday, November 21 2024 at 6 p.m. in the DARC Microcinema in Ottawa for an insightful artist talk by Oo Kierstead, the inaugural artist-in-residence of the DARC Indigenous Residency, which The Hnatyshyn Foundation is proud to support.
In her talk, Lost in Translation, Oo will present the One-Hand Reach GIF she created during her residency and discuss the cultural importance of this traditional Inuit sport.
About the Talk
Oo Aqpik Kierstead is an Inuk media professional, cultural advocate, and fashion designer with over 30 years of experience. The project she worked on during her residency is a GIF that highlights the Inuit sport “One Hand Reach,” symbolizing endurance, balance, and the guidance of future generations.
Raised in Frobisher Bay and the youngest of 10 children, Kierstead’s artistic and cultural roots run deep, heavily influenced by her family and upbringing in seasonal camps. She honours this heritage through various mediums, including fashion and digital art. Her bilingualism (Inuktitut and English) allows her to engage with both Inuit and non-Inuit audiences.
Kierstead’s project emphasizes the cultural significance of Nuuttuittuq — the North Star — as a metaphor for Inuit resilience and guidance. Through spoken word in both languages, she contrasts the motivational focus on athletes in Inuktitut with cultural insight in English, highlighting the deep, interconnected nature of the past, present, and future in Inuit traditions. Oo also addresses challenges in translating cultural essence into language and art, exploring how certain meanings are lost in translation. Kierstead reflects on the ongoing need to “unbury” Inuit culture, drawing from a profound dream shared by Rhoda Karetak, an Inuit elder who described the cultural pain caused by the erasure of traditions.
Ultimately, Kierstead’s message is one of revival and cultural pride: Inuit culture is not dead, but rather, like the North Star, it remains a guiding force for future generations.
About the Artist
Oo is a dynamic leader in media, project management, and cultural advocacy, with a deep commitment to preserving Inuit language and culture. Fluent in both Inuktitut and English, Oo has made a significant impact across various fields. As the founder of Oo K Couture in 2021, Oo transformed her passion for Inuit-inspired sustainable fashion and has showcased at markets and craft sales across Nunavut and Canada.
With over a decade of freelance experience, Oo specializes in Inuktitut productions, contributing as a reporter, producer, and editor for various media outlets. In a leadership role, Oo has spearheaded the development of critical communication strategies and policies, enhancing organizational messaging and outreach.
Oo’s educational background includes studies in applied arts, technology, media, and design. Through innovative media, design, and community-driven initiatives, Oo remains dedicated to promoting and preserving Inuit heritage for future generations.
We hope to see you on November 21st!
The DARC Microcinema is on the second floor of 67 Nicholas St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7B9.
