Before Borders Gallery Show

Before Borders is more than just a gallery show; it is a visual and narrative journey through Northern Alberta, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. Artists Ryan Bolton and Yuma Dean Hester spent a week traversing 5,000 kilometres of rugged terrain, not just to capture the Northern Lights, but to engage in a profound exercise of listening and presence.

A Journey of Connection Rather than treating these landscapes as empty expanses, the exhibition frames them as living territories. Throughout their travels, Bolton and Hester met with Elders, Chiefs, and storytellers, weaving their histories into the work on display. The exhibition challenges the concept of travel as mere escape, instead presenting it as an exchange—a dialogue with those who have called this land home since time immemorial.

Why You Should Go Located in the heart of Queen West at Twist Gallery, this show is a must-see for anyone interested in photography, Indigenous storytelling, and the complex relationship between land and memory. It’s a thoughtful, quiet counterpoint to the bustle of the city, and the proceeds support the DreamsTree Foundation. It’s the perfect stop for a contemplative afternoon before grabbing a coffee or dinner in the neighbourhood.

Practical Info Twist Gallery is easily accessible via the Queen streetcar. The exhibition runs throughout May, giving you plenty of time to drop by. Be sure to check the gallery's website for any specific weekend hours before you head out.