Friends United Projects

Friends United projects bring Indigenous artists, community leaders, educators and supporters together through art, culture, dialogue and shared experiences. From exhibitions and artist programs to educational initiatives and international events, these projects reflect the relationships and collaborations that have shaped Friends United over the years. Based in Nova Scotia, Canada, Friends United works with Indigenous artists and communities through projects in education, healthcare, public spaces and cultural exchange.

Explore Friends United Projects

Jasyn Lucas painting during the Friends United Artist in Residence Program.

Artist in Residence Program

The Friends United Artist in Residence Program brings Indigenous artists together at the Friends United International Convention Centre, creating opportunities for artistic practice, mentorship, cultural exchange and collaboration.

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Indigenous artwork displayed in the entryway of a local school through a Friends United educational project.

Indigenous Art in Schools & Educational Spaces

Friends United brings Indigenous art, artists and cultural perspectives into schools and educational environments, creating opportunities for learning, dialogue and a deeper understanding of Indigenous art and culture.

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Indigenous artwork displayed in healthcare spaces through the Friends United Healing Hearts Through Indigenous Arts project.

Healing Hearts Through Indigenous Arts

Healing Hearts Through Indigenous Arts explores how Indigenous art and creative expression can bring people together, and contribute to understanding, connection and healing.

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Indigenous artwork displayed at the Halifax Chamber of Commerce as part of a Friends United project.

Indigenous Art in Public & Institutional Spaces

Friends United brings Indigenous art into public and institutional spaces, making the work and perspectives of Indigenous artists visible where communities meet, learn and connect.

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Friends United team during the Halifax Exhibition 2013 at Casino Nova Scotia, marking an early milestone in the Friends United project.

Halifax Exhibition 2013

The 2013 exhibition at Casino Nova Scotia in Halifax marked the official public launch of the Friends United project, bringing Indigenous artists, community leaders and supporters together around art, culture and a shared vision.

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Friends United at the Rotary International Convention 2019 in Hamburg

Rotary International Hamburg 2019

In 2019, Friends United participated in the Rotary International Convention in Hamburg, Germany, sharing its work, Indigenous art and its message with an international audience.

Watch Rotary International Hamburg 2019 Video on YouTube  (4 min.)

Outreach & Community Connections

Friends United and Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre representatives beside a Friendship Centre vehicle

Beyond individual projects, Friends United has developed relationships with Mi’kmaw communities, community organizations, institutional partners and international contacts. These connections have grown through visits, gatherings, workshops, shared initiatives and long-term collaboration.

Friends United Through the Years

Over the years, Friends United projects have brought together Indigenous artists, community leaders, educators, institutions and supporters in many different settings. These initiatives document the growth of Friends United and the relationships that continue to shape its work.

Hereditary Chief Stephen Augustine and Friends United founder Rolf Bouman posing together for a photograph.
Friends United founder Rolf Bouman, former AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde, and former Nova Scotia Premier Rodney MacDonald posing together for a photograph.
Morley Googoo, Perry Bellegarde, Roger Augustine, Rolf Bouman, Stephen Augustine, Ovide Mercredi, and Matthew Coon Come standing together for a group photograph.
David Maracle with Rolf Bouman, Maite Itoiz, and John Kelly in a group portrait.
Friends United artist Loretta Gould with Senator Mary Coyle and Friends United founder Rolf Bouman at a gathering.
John Kelly, Maite Itoiz, Rolf Bouman, Halina Stopyra, and Friends United artist Jay Bell Redbird posing together for a group photograph.