Art has a way of bringing people together and reminding us not only of the past, but who we are today. This week, I’d like to give a shout-out to the Mi’kmaq artists that continue to make important contributions to our communities through many forms of artistic expression. From music and literature, skin marking and beadwork to visual and performance arts, we are honoured to celebrate and elevate the artists in our community.

If you have been by our Corner Brook offices lately, you have likely seen the beautiful new murals that were recently installed. Local Mi’kmaq artists, Kelsey Street and Nelson White, were selected through a proposal process, and we are so proud to display their beautiful work.

It has been almost 15 years since Qalipu First Nation was federally recognized, and even though most of today’s council was not there at the start, we carry the same oath; to protect our culture, our lands, and waters, and to keep our Nation moving forward.

Our beginning was complicated, and the challenges have not disappeared, but our people have always found a way through. First Nations across this county we now call Canada, were never expected to endure, yet we are still here. Still rising. Still holding on to who we are. We continue to make meaningful progress, even when the road isn’t easy.

If you have the opportunity to visit the murals on Church Street or see other public artworks or gallery pieces our many talented artists here in Ktaqmkuk, take a moment to notice the skill and the stories they carry. In the coming weeks we will share information about the official mural unveiling on June 21 for National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Relevant Links:
Artist Nelson White: https://www.nelsonwhiteart.com/
Artist Kelsey Street: https://www.instagram.com/mossandneedle/
Writers at Woody Point: https://www.writersatwoodypoint.com/
The Rooms: https://therooms.ca/
Business and Arts NL: https://businessandartsnl.com/
Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council: https://artsnl.ca/