Artist Feature: Avis Blackbird
The Artist's Notebook
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The Artist's Notebook *
Avis is an Indigenous writer from Vancouver, Canada. She is also one of IHRAM’s treasured artists. In this interview, she shares her musings, inspiration, and honest thoughts on her experience with us as an artist and activist.
Her latest art features with IHRAM Press, Tskwenstwecw (Hold Onto Each Other) and One Day I Will Let Go, are found in IHRAM Quarter 4 Literary Magazine: Indigenous Voices.
Thank you for all you do, Avis.
Now, be honest, how has your experience been with IHRAM Press? How did you find us and why did you choose to publish with us?
My experience with IHRAM has been exciting and professional. I found IHRAM through a posting on a Facebook site for authors and was thrilled to submit to an organization I believed in that is making a change. The staff was professional and responsive, as well as generous in sharing other opportunities with me. I am very grateful for the experience I had with IHRAM.
Would you recommend IHRAM Press to other writers/artists?
Absolutely!
Share the artwork published in IHRAM Literary Magazine 2024/ or another piece that represents your Art Statement!
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Tskwenstwecw (Hold Onto Each Other)
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED TO AVIS BLACKBIRD.
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
One Day I Will Let Go
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED TO AVIS BLACKBIRD.
Now for the fun questions! What compels you to pick up a pen or open your laptop to free-write? And what inspires/influences your art or writing, particularly when it comes to addressing human rights issues?
I get overwhelmed with thoughts and stories when I am emotionally affected by experiences. Writing helps me reign in emotions as well as find purpose, especially when things are negative. At a time when people are forgetting who we are as loving and caring humans, it is most important that we connect with each other and share the messages of unity and kindness.
The human rights concerns addressed in the IHRAM literary magazine are often complex and challenging to navigate. How do you navigate the balance between highlighting these challenges and maintaining a sense of hope or optimism in your writing?
I shift every day. Some days, I can only write the feelings of hopelessness, specifically when it feels like negative challenges are current and not in the past. Other days, I feel hopeful and know that young people need to hear and see cultures and people thriving. I look to other authors and artists and I am inspired by their strength and resilience, and I find hope in the arts.
How do you personally connect with our mission? Particularly on the power of art and literature to influence social change, and our values of beauty as a fundamental creative principle, sincerity, vulnerability, celebrating diversity, and opening doorways of engagement.
I believe art (including literature) is not only a powerful means for social change, but I believe it is also a way to heal and grow for artists and communities. It is not just the art and audience that change, but the artist also regains power in creativity. Creating spaces where artists can express themselves without limitations and structural expectations is vital.
The IHRAM magazine aims to celebrate authors contending with their identities within the context of their environments. How does your environment influence your view of the world (your home country, city, and surrounding culture)?
I am a mixed Indigenous and European woman in Canada. I do not necessarily present as Indigenous, as I have fair skin. My experience of the world has been one of privilege. However, I acknowledge the oppressive experiences of my peers and colleagues in this same environment. I try to make structural change in systems wherever I can and hope that where I live will become more equitable.
In comparison, how does your intersectionality influence your view of the world (your personal beliefs, gender expression, religious affiliations, etc.)?
My intersectionality allows me to connect with many different people and fosters a philosophy of growth and learning. As I reclaim my culture on my own journey, I am fortunate to meet and connect with so many amazing people around the world. I am humbled and in awe of so many people who have overcome so much to thrive in this world.
Support Activist Artists
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Support Activist Artists *
Enjoy all of Avis’ previously published work:
“T’ucwtsts: Carry in Flight and Le7 Scenc” (The Polyglot Magazine: Issue 14 / December 2024)
“Hoop Dancer” & “Birds Flutter” (Muskrat Magazine / January 2025)
