Evening Events
Welcome Reception
Hosted by the IONS Team and New Dawn
Sunday, May 12th from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Eltuek Arts Center 170 George St Suite 313, Sydney, NS B1P 1J2, Gallery 211
We’re kicking off the Exchange celebrations with an optional Welcome Reception at the beautiful newly reimagined space in the heart of Sydney at the Eltuek Arts Centre on George Street. Come out to meet the IONS team & the folks at New Dawn, eat snacks and mingle amidst the sounds of local Sydney artist Colette Deveaux for live music playing from 6-8pm. Following an opening ceremony, attendees will be given the chance to tour the space, take in the art installations, and learn more about the rapid housing initiative project being built on the Eltuek grounds. Pre-registration for Exchange will be available during the event.
More about the space: Eltuek (el-du-eg) is a Mi’kmaw word that means “We are making (it) together.” The (it) refers to whatever it is (we) decide to make – art, ideas, music, community, social change. Eltuek Arts Centre is accessible, inclusive, and continuous.
Mingle, lounge, tour the space and be inspired to reimagine what could be possible in your communities. Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian snack options and light non-alcoholic refreshments will be provided.
*This is a fully accessible & inclusive space with accessible and non-gendered bathrooms on all floors of the building.
Colette Deveaux
Colette Deveaux is a singer-songwriter from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, who blends folk, pop, and rock influences in her heartfelt songs. Inspired by the natural beauty and rich culture of her home province, Colette writes about love, loss, and resilience with honesty and emotion. Her debut album, Honey, showcases her versatile voice and catchy melodies, as well as her skillful guitar playing and keen arrangement. Colette has been praised by critics and fans alike for her authentic and engaging style. She has also performed at various festivals and venues across Canada, sharing the stage with some of the country’s most acclaimed artists, Madison Violet, The Trews, Joel Plaskett, Mo Kenny, and T. Thomason. Colette Deveaux is a rising star in the Canadian music scene, and a proud ambassador of the East Coast spirit.
Evening Celebration
Monday, May 13th from 6:30pm-9:00pm
We are pleased to offer an evening of fun, celebration, and connection during Exchange! During this event we will be announcing and uplifting the winning organization of the IONS Reimagining Work Award, followed by a musical performance and chance dance to local live music. There will be a cash bar, light appetizers, and a festive atmosphere!
Morgan Toney
Mi’kmaq fiddler and singer Morgan Toney will bring together the fiery fiddling of Cape Breton Island and the old songs of the Mi’kmaq with brilliance and heart. First Flight, Toney’s award nominated debut album, celebrates language and heritage in Toney’s transformation of traditional songs like the Ko’jua and the Mi’kmaq Honour Song alongside highly original songcraft.