The ArtWorksTO Indigenous program offers Indigenous youth media creatives opportunities to gain professional experience, develop skills, and build networks in the media arts industry. This identity was developed through a deeply collaborative process, with Indigenous perspectives guiding the work from concept through to execution.
The process was deeply rooted in research: prioritizing Indigenous creative leadership and intentionally moving away from generalized or stereotypical representations, grounding the identity in contemporary Indigenous perspectives focused on younger audiences.The concept explores the eye and traditional Inuit snow goggles as a visual metaphor for focus, perspective and connection. This evolved into a distinctive motif symbolizing a safe space where artists can cut through mainstream narratives and express their own point of view. Typography plays a fundamental role here: the "O" opens up to visual elements, creating an inviting feel to messaging.
The creative direction brought Indigenous artists into the heart of the identity. Illustration by Morningstar and photography by Robbie J. Harper became foundational to the system, allowing the visual language to be shaped by authentic Indigenous creative voices. Indigenous multidisciplinary filmmaker and artist Kennedy Salloum was an essential voice throughout the process, helping ensure the identity was thoughtful, contemporary, and grounded in the lived experiences of Indigenous artists.
As we get to know the participants, these posts are meant to highlight their work on our social media channels.
A special brochure was created to capture potential hosts for the program, showcasing AWTO's participants portfolios and details of the program.
The resulting system brings together expressive typography, tactile textures, illustration, photography, and motion into a flexible visual language. Designed to shift and adapt like the artists themselves, the identity creates a contemporary platform for Indigenous media artists to find their path, grow their community, and rise in spaces that truly get them.
