Tsielth Smun'eem - Respect our families
24" x 24" with 1" white border
unframed edition of 50, Signed.
2021
Printed on archival quality paper and a perfect matte finish for framing.
• Printed on Breathing Color Pura Smooth paper (archival quality)
• 300gsm weight
• Matte finish, no surface glare
• Printed by an 11 colour Epson printer using Epson Ultrachrome HDX inks
• Inks are museum quality and feature print permanence ratings of up to 200 years
• Resistant to humidity, UV and atmospheric ozone
This mural honours the past, the present and the future. Everything in this world is connected. I created this mural to showcase multiple ways of relation through reflections. I want to honour and uplift our children, our survivors and ancestors who suffered the consequences of Indian Residential School, Indian Day Schools and Indian Hospitals.
The swans reflect a heart, symbolizing love. Swans are one of the fiercest birds and extremely protective of their young, making them incredible mothers. They live in harmony and flourish between water, land and air. For this reason, I have encompassed them with hearts.
The sun face reflects itself and the crescents and trigons are reflected as ripples in the water and sky. We are reflections of our ancestors. Growing up I heard about the term ripple effect in a negative light. I don't think we talk enough about how the ripple effect can apply to the inherited strength we gain through generations.
In the future, I want to see communities healed and culturally strong. I use my art as a vessel for returning the feelings of love and gratitude to the ancestors, for we are blessed to live through their strength. I captured this feeling within the clouds, as we always raise our hands in gratitude, in many Huy ch q’u, Siem's.
When I acknowledge so-called Canada’s history, it brings pain. Although Indigenous people have always been aware of the passing of children at residential schools, it is a trigger within our communities. We do not take it lightly as these discoveries are a reminder of the protocols and ceremonies that did not come to pass and the rights that were once stripped.
Addressing these findings are paramount for healing. Truth and Reconciliation is a national responsibility.