National Indigenous Peoples Day - Artist Statement - Waterloo Public Square Mural 2021

Описание: Monday, June 21, 2021 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. City of Waterloo has been marking the occasion annually for the past five years, and for the last four years we have partnered with artist Luke Swinson who has created and installed an original art piece on the surface of Waterloo Public Square. This artwork serves as a visual reminder of the territory and land on which our city was founded.

This year, artists Alanah Astehtsi Otsistohkwa (Morningstar) Jewell and Luke Swinson have partnered to create a new piece that will be installed on the surface of Waterloo Public Square. Both Jewell and Swinson created a video to discuss their work and the meaning behind the piece.

This year’s mural is titled Revival and is a collaboration between Alanah and Luke. The animals, florals, and plant life show the relationship between the birds in the sky, fish in the water, plant life, and all living things in-between. The strawberries honor the full Strawberry Moon on June 24, as well as the Summer Solstice. The figures represent Indigenous ancestors and all that they have given to their community. The water in the piece is a reference to the Grand River which is vital to Indigenous peoples living in this area. The piece is meant to encourage people to connect with the land and understand the relationship with the Creator.

Alanah Astehtsi Otsistohkwa (Morningstar) Jewell is a mixed French-First Nations artist, and is Bear Clan from Oneida Nation of the Thames. She is a practicing artist, community organizer, and also works with the City of Kitchener as their Parks Engagement Associate to Indigenize urban parks and open spaces. Luke Swinson belongs to the Missisaugas of Scugog Island first Nation and is an artist and muralist living in Kitchener-Waterloo.

To see more of the artists' work:
https://morningstardesigns.ca
https://lukeswinsonart.com