Point Pelee National Park launches its inaugural Art at the oTENTiks

Festival showcases Indigenous arts and culture

October 1, 2018                               Point Pelee National Park                                Parks Canada Agency

Point Pelee National Park is wrapping up its centennial year with its very first arts and crafts festival in the beautiful and unique setting of the Camp Henry oTENTik village. Art at the oTENTiks is a two-day event featuring artists and artisans demonstrating their craft and selling their goods.

Artists will work and stay in the comfort of oTENTiks, becoming artists in residence for the weekend of October 13th and 14th. A cross between an A-frame cabin and a prospector tent, oTENTiks are a unique Parks Canada’s accommodation that provide a relaxing, comfortable, and easy way to camp.

Throughout the weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to experience Point Pelee National Park as they stroll the oTENTik village, visiting the artists and learning how their beautiful products are created. There will be art for everyone, from photography and watercolours to crochet work and garden décor!

Indigenous arts and culture will be front and centre at the event, with artists from Walpole Island First Nation and Caldwell First Nation on site to demonstrate their craftsmanship. On display in the Camp Henry dining Hall will be a special art exhibit titled the "Treaty Canoe" to be presented by artist Alex McKay. Indigenous ally and self-declared 'Champion' of Treaty Canoe, McKay will be spreading the word that “We are all Treaty People”.  A sampling of tasty Indigenous-style snacks will also be available for purchase on site.

On Saturday, visitors will be invited to relax and enjoy musical entertainment in the beautiful Camp Henry setting.

This year, Parks Canada is offering free admission for one day at Parks Canada’s places across the country. Point Pelee National Park is pleased to offer free admission on October 13th, the first day of Art at the oTENTiks. Regular park admission fees will apply on October 14th.

There are still a few spots available for interested artists to participate in this inaugural event. Artists interested in joining Art at the oTENTiks are invited to visit Point Pelee’s website at www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/on/pelee/activ/art-otentik, or contact us at pelee.info@pc.gc.ca or by telephone at 519-322-2365 ext. 3322.