News Release: November 14, 2019
PAMA celebrates the 550th Anniversary of Guru Nanak
Brampton, ON (Nov. 14, 2019) Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA) is pleased to partner with the Friends of Sikh Studies to present a very special exhibition, The Sakhis of Guru Nanak: The Life & Legacy of the Founder of the Sikh Faith. This exhibition is guest curated by B.S. Marwah. In celebration, PAMA general admission will be free for the span of the exhibition, running from November 17, 2019 to January 19, 2020.
Artist Unknown, Guru Nanak, Bala and Mardana, c. 18th century, Gouache on paper with gold leaf, 43 x 35 cm, Private Collection
About the Exhibition
The Sakhis of Guru Nanak: The Life and Legacy of the Founder of Sikh Faith showcases, through calligraphy, paintings, drawings, photographs, fabrics, manuscripts and soundscapes, the life and teachings of Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539), the founder of the Sikh faith. The exhibition acknowledges and celebrates the legacy of Guru Nanak 550 years since his birth. The Sakhis of Guru Nanak seeks to provide greater insight into the Sikh faith through original objects and artworks created after the 18th century. They speak to the Guru’s central messages of a universal supreme Being, and the equality of humankind.
The “sakhis” – stories of the Guru, often with images that illustrate the stories – provide poignant and intimate narratives of Guru Nanak’s life as a spiritual pilgrim throughout the Indian sub-continent, and beyond. Many artworks, drawn and painted within the Sikh “miniature” tradition, vividly illustrate narrative accounts as described in “Janamsakhis” – early manuscript accounts of the life of Guru Nanak.
Several original Janamsakhis have been gathered for this exhibition to showcase the development of Sikh calligraphy and the emergence of the illuminated manuscript within the Janamsakhi tradition. Textiles such as rumalas which grace the Sikh sacred text are an added dimension to the exhibition; as are original photographs of historic monuments and gurdwaras that stand as vivid reminders of the extensive journeys and legacy of the Guru.
Programming Highlights
- Sunday, Nov. 17: Extended hours at PAMA (1 – 7 p.m.) and Celebration at Brampton City Hall (1 – 5 p.m.)
- Exhibition Reception: Sunday, Dec. 1, 2 – 4 p.m.
- Lecture with Davinder Toor, UK – The Odyssey of Nanak: Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020, 2 p.m.
- Curator Talk with B.S. Marwah – Insights into Sikh Art: Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, 2 p.m.
PAMA is a place to explore and learn about Peel Region’s culture and heritage, as well as use conversation, questions and stories to help make new and fascinating connections to the surrounding community. Throughout the year, PAMA offers a variety of workshops and programs for all ages, families and adults. With so many different programs to choose from, PAMA has something for everyone. Operated by the Region of Peel, PAMA is located at 9 Wellington Street, East in Brampton. Visit pama.peelregion.ca to learn more.
Media Contacts
Erin Fernandes
Marketing Coordinator
Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA)
905-791-4055, ext. 7596
About Peel Region
In 2024, Peel Region marks its 50th anniversary. Peel Region works with residents and partners to create a healthy, safe, and connected Community for Life for approximately 1.5 million people and over 200,000 businesses in Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon. Peel's services touch the lives of residents every day. For more information explore peelregion.ca and follow us on X @regionofpeel and Instagram @peelregion.ca.
On December 13, 2023, the Ontario government announced that Peel Region will not be dissolved, and that Bill 112 legislation will be updated to reflect service delivery in Peel. Services for residents and businesses will continue without interruption. For updates and more information, visit Peel's transition page.
