In Memoriam
Thomas V. Hill
On November 11, 2023 Tom Hill, one of the greatest leaders and advocates for Indigenous arts and culture, moved on to the other side.
It is impossible to summarize a tribute to Thomas V. Hill in a short summary, the life he lived was impressive, storied, and inspired. Tom was recognized locally, nationally, and internationally as a curator, historian, mentor, author, playwright, and performer.
Early in his career he was recognized with the groundbreaking work for the Montreal Expo ‘67 Indians of Canada Pavilion. He was also one of the first Indigenous curators at the National Gallery of Canada (as well as many other notable galleries and art institutions across Turtle Island). He was co-chair and a principal author of of Turning the Page: Task Force on Museums and First Peoples, published by the Canadian Museums Association in 1992.
Tom in discussion with Robbie Robertson. Photo — Woodland Cultural Centre.
On a personal note, I am very aware that Tom cleared a path that allowed myself and others to have the careers and opportunities we do. In the summer of 2000, upon completing my first year of undergrad studies in visual arts, I was hired for a summer student position at the Woodland Cultural Centre. It was during this placement that my dreams of one day being a painter started to shift. I was so inspired and captivated by Tom's work as Museum Director. At the Centre he was creating a space of meaningful Indigenous-led education, Indigenous narrative agency, of self-determination, and artistic excellence. Tom was a visionary who raised the profile of the Center and the potential for what Indigenous arts presentation could be and the guiding force behind the Centre’s collection of both Indigenous contemporary art and historical artefacts, a collection that resulted in many groundbreaking and acclaimed exhibitions.
Tom in the archives room with a colleague. Photo — Woodland Cultural Centre.
It was the way in which he carried out this work, not just the outcomes, that was most impactful. Tom will always be my guiding ojistoh (star) in how I conduct my professional life. He was the epitome of down-to-earth — humble, generous and respectful to all. He never forgot to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, taking time to enjoy a nice meal with friends and loved ones or bringing in fresh-cut flowers from his own garden.
From Tom I learned to always be curious, to be playful and create and to move through this world with kindness.
Nia:wen to you Tom.We were so lucky to have you.
Naomi Johnson is Kanyen'kehà:ka/Mohawk and serves as the Executive Director of ImagineNative.
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