Alanis Obomsawin Photo: Bruno Destombes
After a career spanning almost six decades, Alanis Obomsawin is still busy working on her 56th and 57th film aged 91.
A member of the Abenaki Nation, Obomsawin is one of Canada’s most distinguished and lauded filmmakers, often documenting the struggle of the Indigenous people and championing for their rights.
A director, producer and artist, Obomsawin has been part of the National Film Board of Canada since 1967. Growing up, Obomsawin experienced racism and discrimination. Through singing, art and storytelling she has spent her life detailing the injustices and the treatment of the First Nations people.
As part of 2023 programme where does my body belong? at Artspace Aotearoa in central Tamaki Makaurau, a new exhibition centres around four of Obomsawin’s films. To move between: Healing and Resistance is at Artspace until 4 November.
Obomsawin spoke to Culture 101’s Perlina Lau, reflecting on her extensive career and the progress she has witnessed over the past nine decades.
Sigwan, directed by Alanis Obomsawin Photo: Supplied
