Nebizun is the Abenaki word for medicine and the root word Nebi is the Abenaki word for water. The rivers and tributaries of N’Dakinna (our homeland) were our highways for traveling and the water itself is important to the species of fish and other wildlife that is necessary to our way of life. As stewards of the environment Native American people know the importance of having clean water. The Abenaki people know and understand the importance of water in everyday activities related to foodways and healing powers of water. Nebizun: Water is Life draws its inspiration from Native American Grandmothers that have been doing water walks to pray for the water.

This exhibit shows the Abenaki relationship to water and draws attention to water as a fundamental element that is necessary for all life and acknowledges how pollution can change our traditional lifeways and health.

Exhibit open from June 22 to October 15, 2019

Featured artists include Melody Walker Brook, Amy Hook-Therrien, Rick Hunt, Francine Poitras Jones, Norm M’Sadoques, Bill Gould, Lina Longtoe, Roger Longtoe Sheehan, and Aaron York.

Guest curated by Vera Longtoe Sheehan.

Special thanks to Fred Wiseman for the usage of his family’s fishing equipment.