When creating Not Traumatic Enough for a Shock Blanket, Yasmeen Nematt Alla posed the question to her community: What stories do we begin telling with, “I wouldn’t call it traumatic but...”. Using some of the answers to her question, Yasmeen took narratives that are not seen as worthy of being traumatic experiences and placed them on objects that carried the words’ magnitude and weight while letting the audience bear witness to the truth of these experiences and, by extension, carry some of the weight of the narratives.
This thought-provoking exhibit invites us to consider the importance of trauma-informed community spaces and the ability of art to provide gestures of care. Stay engaged through the Grebel Gallery webpage and on Twitter @GrebelCPA.
From September 7, 2021 - March 7, 2022, audiences are invited to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions of validity while interacting with Nematt Alla's shock blanket installation and the stories behind each piece.
To visit the Grebel Gallery in-person, please submit your request using this form. The staff at the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement will follow up regarding further details and accommodations.
Grebel Gallery Hours (EST):
Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am – 10:00 pm
Friday, 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday, 1:00 – 5:00 pm