For more than 20 years, Friends United and its founder, Rolf Bouman, have been dedicated to collaborating with Indigenous artists and promoting a deeper understanding of cultural heritage. Through their commitment, Friends United has supported Indigenous artists in becoming entrepreneurs and has shared their deeply spiritual artwork with communities across the world.
In October 2023, Friends United obtained federal not-for-profit registration, demonstrating their commitment to meeting the community’s needs. Presently, they are working on becoming a registered foundation to expand their impact and program reach. The Halifax Chamber of Commerce recently collaborated with Friends United in the spirit of reconciliation on an Indigenous art exhibition at its head office which was very well received.
Art has a profound impact on the community, especially youth. Engaging with art can help everybody feel a sense of connection and belonging. Art provides a space for self-expression, creativity, and emotional exploration, which can be therapeutic and beneficial. Additionally, art initiatives and programs offer opportunities for individuals to come together, collaborate, and support each other, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Overall, the presence of art nurtures health by inspiring joy, creativity, and a deeper understanding of oneself and others.
Art offers a unique approach to reconciliation by fostering open dialogue, understanding, and healing. Through creative expression, individuals and communities can confront difficult truths, express diverse perspectives, and work towards reconciliation in a way that transcends language barriers. Art has the power to communicate complex emotions and experiences, ultimately allowing for deeper connections and empathy among individuals with differing backgrounds. By providing a platform for storytelling and reflection, Indigenous art plays a crucial role in addressing historical injustices and promoting mutual respect, understanding, and healing.
As a continuous commitment to ensuring that voices are heard, Friends United not-for-profit is actively working to increase the number of Indigenous artists creating and in its programs. The Friends United not-for-profit goal is to create more opportunities for Indigenous artists while sharing their culture and heritage with the public. Friends United has donated Indigenous artwork to schools, community colleges, universities, hospitals, community centres, RCMP detachments, EHS bases, and the Canadian Coast Guard College. Friends United was a major artistic contributor to the North American Indigenous Games—installing a large art display on windows at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport—and on music events like the Stan Rogers Festival and KitchenFest. Through their artworks, Friends United artists are creating opportunities for youth to explore Canadian history and learn from it.
Looking forward, Friends United remains focused on advocating for the innovative spirit and cultural heritage of Indigenous artists. Their objective is to continue making a lasting impact, empowering future generations to embrace entrepreneurship and cultural exchange.
Ultimately, the story of Friends United serves as a testament to the power of community and dedication. This work has illuminated the path to a more inclusive and culturally rich future, where Indigenous artists and their communities thrive, inspiring and captivating the world with their cultural legacy.
As Friends United continues its expansion, the organization is looking for help and sponsorship from outside sources such as corporations and individuals who share in its mission of fostering a brighter future through the arts and working together on reconciliation and education.
For these purposes, television anchor and author Nancy Regan has conducted many interviews with stakeholders at the Friends United International Convention Centre in Cape Breton. In her new show called Showing Up, which will begin airing with Eastlink this fall, Nancy will feature many Indigenous artists from the Friends United circle and their missions.
Learn more about Friends United at:
< Back to Articles | Topics: Trends