As a creative, I don’t have a box to think out of. I see something and start. I go beyond lines and create, with spirit, freedom and passion. I love a challenge. I use memory, visuals and connection to lead me. I perceive nothing until it begins to happen. The notion of colour, shape and unity come second to letting spirit lead. I wait and hear. I am a follower when it comes to brush strokes and a leader when it come to life. My pieces are heart pieces. Born out of connection with what I see, feel, hear, and experience.
The story of Peace
My canoe entitled, “Peace”, is reflective of the original relationship of peace, harmony and friendship between the newcomers, the Europeans, and the people of the land, the Haudenosaunee. The Two Row Wampum treaty of 1613 is the first signed treaty on Turtle Island/Canada, and remains a legally binding agreement to this day.
My decision to include my culture on the canvas of this canoe, was a no brainer. Tom Thomson lived 1877-1917 during the time of residential schools, and traumatic abduction of First Nations, Metis and Inuit children from their homes, families and communities.
I found inspiration as I opened my heart and spirit to think about what Tom Thomson as a young man living during this time may have thought or felt. Did he have Indigenous friends? Was his art reflective of a relationship with Indigenous people?
Each day of the canoe painting experience, I would arrive at sunrise and smudge “Peace” and myself. As the mist rose on the water, and silence reigned, peace reigned. I knew Tom was there, nodding his approval. I knew I was doing right by my people. The land called to Tom and it called to me. The blending of two cultures, in a good way, the right way, the way it could have been. The way it should have been.
Venue: Algonquin Outfitters
