Free, Talk

Water Ceremony and Conversations

Fri Jun 13, 2025, 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Kick off a weekend of immersive offerings that deepen our human connection to the waters that surround and sustain us by convening with the artists and cultural stewards featured in Make the River Present.

The evening begins with a water ceremony led by Dail Chambers, inviting participants to a mindful moment that infuses water with individual intentions as well as a shared collective experience. Following this ritual, guests are invited to a communal dinner in which Make the River Present co-organizers Allena Brazier and Michelle Dezember will facilitate a conversation with participants and contributors to the exhibition: Terry Bergeron, Dail Chambers, Andi Gaither, Galen Gritts (Cherokee), Saundi McClain-Kloeckener, Jane Neidhardt, Basmin Red Deer, Rafael Sousa-Sommo, Monique Verdin (Houma), and Geoff Ward. This participatory event aims to explore the artistic and cultural relationships that flow between our communities and the waterways that connect us.

Schedule

  • 5:30 pm: Native American Space/Time Continuum led by Galen Gritts, followed by Water Ceremony led by Dail Chambers
  • 6:30 pm: Communal Dinner
  • 7:00 pm: Discussion

All components are free and open to the public. Prior registration is requested; please click here to sign up.

Click here to learn about the River Excursion on Saturday, June 14 also offered as part of the series of gatherings offered in conjunction with Make the River Present.

Accessibility notes

  • The Water Ceremony takes place in the CAM courtyard, weather permitting, which is a graveled area with paved perimeter. Seating is provided.
  • The discussion will take place in CAM’s Performance Space with seating available on a first come, first served basis.
  • A complimentary light dinner with vegan and gluten free options will be served, with drinks available for purchase. Guests are welcome to bring their own food; outside beverages are not allowed.
  • To request an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter for this event, please contact programs@camstl.org with as much prior notice possible to ensure availability.

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