Can I Touch It? Kink, Consent and Art Collections

As part of Pride Week, the Mitchell Art Gallery, in partnership with the Centre for Sexual and Gender Diversity, invites you to a hands-on event with Doll 4 by Inuvialuk artist Kablusiak and conversation about art, kink, and mental health. Recently acquired by the MacEwan University Art Collection, the artwork belongs to a series of dolls that the artist created to offer care for viewers. Kablusiak modeled the series after the My Therapy Buddy doll from the early 2000s, a huggable plush friend intended to support mental well-being. The leather harness worn by Doll 4 doubles as installation support and references Indigenous sexual sovereignty and the material culture of queer sexual practices, themes Kablusiak often explores in their artwork.

Come experience the artwork in an unconventional way that challenges traditional “do not touch” museum protocols, and join a broader conversation about kink, care, consent and mental health. Gather in a relaxed circle with accessible seating options such as beanbags and couches to create a shared, communal format. The Doll will be passed from participant to participant during a guided discussion, encouraging physical engagement while also reflecting on the doll as an object of care, healing, and agency. After the hour-long discussion, enjoy some refreshments and an opportunity to have your photo taken with the Doll for the MacEwan Art Collection records.

Moderator: TBD

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Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Doors: 5:00 p.m.
Event: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Roundhouse Event Space, 11-159
All are welcome to attend.

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This event is part of Pride Week 2026, where MacEwan University recognizes and celebrates the diversity of our 2SLGBTQ+ students, faculty, staff, and allies.

MacEwan’s Pride Week 2026 is brought to you by the YEG Campus Pride Network (MacEwan University, University of Alberta, Concordia University of Edmonton, NAIT, NorQuest College, and The King's University).