177 Weeks of Art, Belonging, and the Life In-Between
Winnipeg, MB — A new exhibit, 177 Weeks: Art, Belonging, and the Life In-Between, has launched, showcasing a curated collection of photos that have been viewed over 2.7 million times across various platforms.
The exhibit highlights images from an ongoing arts incubator project that began two years ago with support from the Canada Council for the Arts Digital Greenhouse and Manitoba Arts Council. While the initial goal in both projects was to develop an online gallery, the project grew organically over time, with unexpected photos from everyday moments capturing the attention of audiences around the world.
“What’s remarkable about this collection is that it’s not the polished, intentional works we initially thought would stand out,” said Jamie Bell, one of the interdisciplinary artists supporting the program. “The most viewed images are the ones we took just for fun over the course of a few projects—the spontaneous shots from diners, quiet streets, and behind-the-scenes moments. It’s these raw, unplanned moments that have really resonated with people.”
As the platform has grown, attracting thousands of visitors each month, the team has dedicated time to maintaining and curating their collections—a vital process for both arts organizations and individual artists. “Managing a collection isn’t just about gathering images; it’s about maintaining the integrity of the work and ensuring that it continues to connect with the audience,” said Bell. “It takes consistent effort, attention to detail, and an ongoing relationship with the community that engages with the art.”
The project brings together elements from past projects made possible with the support of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Manitoba Arts Council’s Indigenous 360 Program, and the Canada Council for the Arts Digital Greenhouse initiative.
The new exhibit, 177 Weeks: Art, Belonging, and the Life In-Between, brings together those surprising, humble moments and invites viewers to experience the beauty in life’s quiet spaces. Through this collection, the project continues to foster connection, drawing people in with its honest portrayal of life, art, and belonging.