We sat down with MJ Belcourt, Fringe’s new Indigenous Director, to find out more about her! Read on to learn more about her artistic journey and the things she’s pondering right now.

WHEN DID YOU START FRINGING?

Many moons ago…! Although my Fringe -going has not been consistent every year, I have always enjoyed the times I have visited.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR JOB AT FRINGE? 

I am the new Indigenous Director. I come to this role with more than 18 years of festival experience, where I have been the Indigenous lead in managing, coordinating, and programming Indigenous showcases for a variety of festivals in E-town.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT IN YOUR ROLE WITH FRINGE? 

I’m most excited to include talented Indigenous shows, performances, and people who have yet to be discovered

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU’RE LEARNING ABOUT RIGHT NOW? 

Everybody’s name!

I’m also learning to be mindful, meditate and live in harmony, realizing the ups and downs are part of the process. Like a band: sometimes you hear the strings, sometimes the drums, but together, the sound is beautiful. I must remind myself that life is harmoniously beautiful even when the drums are loud.

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

I’m always inspired to create, after being in ceremony, around the wisdom of elders at a pipe ceremony, a sweat lodge, or at a cultural camp, listening to the language and laughter. Ceremonies deepen the connection to spirit as we continue to heal in circle.

WHAT IS THE BEST COMPLIMENT YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? 

As a certified Cultural Arts Instructor, I have taught Indigenous art skills to many, old and young. After teaching a class to grade 4’s, one student stayed a little longer to get help tying a knot. After helping her, I said, ‘I love your creation,’ and she said, ‘I do too,’ and spontaneously gave me a big hug. That warmed my heart…it was the best!

WHAT IS AN ACHIEVEMENT OR CONTRIBUTION THAT YOU’RE THE MOST PROUD OF? 

As part of the curatorial team at Fort Edmonton, I was able to seek out Indigenous Artists to create items for the new ‘Indigenous Peoples Experience’ exhibit. It was very rewarding to meet so many talented creators. Their works tell the stories that connect us to our ancestors’ world.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE OF WORK?

Being outside in nature, walking barefoot, hugging trees, and learning more bushcraft survival skills.

Art by MJ Belcourt.