In conjunction with her representation of Canada in the major exhibition New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024, at the National Museum of Women in the Arts, in Washington, DC, the Embassy of Canada proudly presents an exhibition showcasing the captivating works of Meryl McMaster, a visionary Canadian artist whose artistry transcends boundaries and sparks profound introspection.
Born in Ottawa in 1988, McMaster’s heritage roots her in the Nêhiyaw culture of the Red Pheasant Cree Nation, alongside her affiliation with the Siksika Nation, with British and Dutch ancestry woven into her identity. Her art, predominantly photography-based, integrates handcrafted elements, sculptural garments, and performative self-portraits, creating an opportunity for the viewer to explore themes of identity, memory, and tradition.
Among McMaster’s numerous accolades are the Scotiabank New Generation Photography Award, the REVEAL Indigenous Art Award, Charles Pachter Prize for Emerging Artists, the Canon Canada Prize, the Eiteljorg Contemporary Art Fellowship, the OCAD U Medal and was long listed for the 2016 Sobey Art Award; all cementing her status as one of Canada’s most innovative contemporary artists. Her pieces are displayed in collections of esteemed institutions such as the Canadian Museum of History and the National Museum of the American Indian, the Ottawa Art Gallery, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada.
From April 14th to August 11th, 2024, McMaster’s work will be part of the group exhibition, “New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024”, at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Alongside 27 groundbreaking artists, this collective will offer viewers a chance to witness new visions, alternative realities and gaze at the artists’ push of boundaries and creativity.
Join us at the Embassy of Canada as we celebrate the boundless creativity of Mery McMaster and explore the intricate tapestry of Canadian identity and culture.
The Embassy’s art gallery is open Monday to Friday at 501 Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Please visit us from 9am to 5pm, free of charge.