The True Cost of Oil, Art Exhibit On Now at the University of Alberta Department of Art & Design

You are invited to attend this outstanding exhibit by editorial and fine art photographer Garth Lenz, which will show the juxtaposition between Alberta's oil sands and the surrounding Boreal Forest.

The launch event panel featured photographer Garth Lenz sharing his airborne experience, capturing images of the oil sands and the forest ecosystem above the treeline. He was joined by Cleo Reece, Keeper of the Water Elders Wisdom Council, Fort McMurray First Nation, Treaty 8 and Jean L’Hommecourt, Keepers of the Water co-chair, traditional land user, and a member of Fort McKay First Nation in Treaty 8 territory, who provided firsthand accounts of what it’s like to live downstream of the oil industry and its damaging impacts.

Learn how you can attend here: https://www.ualberta.ca/arts/shows/gallery-listings/2023-24/the-true-cost-of-oil-canadas-oil-sands-and-the-last-great-forest.html.

Presented by Environmental Defence Canada and Keepers of the Water, we hope you'll be able to make it to the reception on Thursday, May 16 at 6 PM, which you can sign up for here: https://act.environmentaldefence.ca/page/146566/event/1

There will also be a projection of community photos by Tori Cress, KOW Communications Manager, G’Chiminssing, Williams Treaty Territory.

Exhibit Dates: May 15 - June 1, 2024

Location: Fine Arts Building, University of Alberta, room 2-20

Reception and Panel Date: Thursday, May 16, 2024

Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm, panel begins at 6:15 pm, and reception is 7:15-9:00 pm

Panel info: On May 16, 6:15 pm in FAB 2-20, join us for an artist talk and presentation featuring photographer Garth Lenz and special guests Elder Cleo Reece and Grassroots Leader Jean L’Hommecourt.

Get a look out the airplane passenger seat window as Garth shares his airborne experience, capturing images of the oil sands and the forest ecosystem from above the treeline.

Hear firsthand accounts from Indigenous community leaders of what it’s like to live nearby and downstream of the ever-expanding tar sands industry and its damaging impacts on members of local Indigenous communities.

The event will be moderated by Alienor Rougeot, Climate and Energy Program Manager, Environmental Defence.

After the conversation, join us for an exhibit viewing and light refreshments in the gallery to learn how you can connect with others working for positive change.