Description:

Join Eli Suzukovich III (Little Shell Band of Chippewa-Cree/Krajina Serb) for a walk along the lakefill.  At Northwestern University, Eli serves as Director of Cultural Preservation and Compliance (Office for Research), Assistant Professor of Instruction in the Environmental Policy, Culture Program, and faculty affiliate of the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research Institute.  He will discuss the natural materials found in Woven Being: Art for Zhegagoynak / Chicagoland, and their cultural significance to indigenous peoples.  After a brief talk in the Woven Being gallery, that will focus on works by Jason Wesaw (Pokagon Band of Potawatomi), Kelly Church (Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Tribe of Pottawatomi/Ottawa), and Courtney Leonard (Shinnecock Nation), the talk will continue outdoors.  Eli will discuss the history of the Evanston shoreline and the Northwestern lakefill, sharing his extensive knowledge of the plants and trees on campus that have indigenous cultural significance, and the work he has done to curate and study plant species on campus.  He will address the impact of climate change on the fish found in Lake Michigan and the plants found on campus.  

 Block Gallery Talks offer a close look at select works on view centering the interdisciplinary questions, perspectives and expertise of faculty, staff, students, and community members across Northwestern and beyond.     

Participation level – light, participants may choose to share thoughts and questions during the tour.  Please note this tour includes a walk outdoors, which will take approximately 60 minutes.  Bringing water is advised.  There are eight steps to get to the lakefill bridge after exiting the Block.  If you require an accommodation please email blockengagement@northwestern.edu when RSVPing, thank you. 

The Block Museum of Art acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.