"THE BIG CHICKEN" EDUCATIONAL ART WORKSHOP

In January 2018, I had the amazing experience of working with a group of students in grade nine. I shared with them about my personal journey, my work as a professional artist and about the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Over 4 days, we talked and shared about ourselves, each student then chose a person in their life to honour. I taught them the technique I use, and encouraged them to not copy my Big Chicken - but make one that feels right to them. At the end of the workshop, we sat in a sharing circle and each student talked about their painting and what they had learned.

MURAL OF AUTUMN PELTIER

Autumn Peltier of Wikwemikong with her beautiful family, were in Toronto on June 4 for the honoring of Autumn who is one of the most significant Nishinaabe leaders today. The students at Central Toronto Academy, under the guidance of Nishinaabe artist Mel Bartel, painted a mural featuring a portrait of this water protector. It's a beautiful mural painted on a prominent wall in the school. Miigwetch Autumn.

Miigwetch to the students who were inspired by Autumn, her vision, and her work. Miigwetch to the wonderfully gifted Nishinaabe artist Mel Bartel who guided the students through the creative process. And of course, Miigwetch to Shandra Spears Bombay for the beautiful songs at the honoring ceremony today. I felt so privileged to be there. Miigwetch to Autumn's family for sharing her with the world!


WRITTEN BY: Barb Nahwegahbow
PHOTO BY: lisamacintoshphotography.ca/ASK