Algoma Public Health
Indigenous Artwork & The Stories They Inspire
Neekokaabjigan
Is an Anishinaabemowin word that speaks about the act of connecting knowledge, family, people and communities ~ past, present and future.
The string that connects us, binds us together from generation to generation; this is how we are connected to all those who came before us, to all those coming after us.
Our story as Indigenous People; our healing, our willingness to help each other is our present responsibility.
We are the history for those yet to come and we carry a sacred responsibility to bring forward in truth and healing, using our gifts collectively. Keeping in mind, the best intentions of those whose lives we touch and affect. Keeping in mind, 7 Generational thinking. What we do today and how it will impact the next 7 generations.
Bea Shawanda, Ojibway Odawa Pottowattomi Grandmother, Wikwemikong
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Guided by the “Talking Together to Improve Health” principles of respect, commitment, trust and self-determination, APH has been collaborating with Indigenous partners to include local Indigenous artwork in our offices as well as Anishinaabemowin & Ililimowin (Cree) on our building signs. Our intention is to be respectful of the original languages and cultures of this land and create a more inviting space. Language Carrier and Elder, Barb Nolan kindly provided the Anishinaabemowin translations, and Missanabie Cree Cultural Language Facilitator Matthew Wesley ᒪᑎᐤ kindly provided the Ililimowin (ᐃᓕᓕᒧᐎᓐ Cree language) translations.
This is a part of APH’s efforts toward the shared goal of Truth and Reconciliation. Engagement continues with local Indigenous partners to reduce health inequities and improve community health as we journey together toward the shared goal of Truth and Reconciliation.
Below you can learn more about the local Indigenous artwork chosen by Indigenous partners aligned with each office.
CHOOSE AN OFFICE LOCATION:
Health & Well-Being
(Medium: Original Acrylic Painting on Canvas)
Artist: Christina Bekintis
Christina Bekintis - Fire Wolf is an Anishinaabe mother of the Eagle Clan, and a self-taught artist who finds passion in bringing her dreams, visions, connection to the land and culture to life through her art. She resides in Wawa, Ontario and is a band member of Garden River First Nation.
Fire Wolf enjoys creating murals and facilitating painting workshops using acrylic paints to create bright vivid colors contrasted against silhouettes with intricate details. She aspires to continue developing her own unique style by telling stories riddled with teachings that are found in her art.
Generational Health & Well Being
(Medium: Fluid Art)
Artist: Lisa Souliere
Lisa Souliere (aka Blue Heron Woman), is Cree from Missanabie Cree First Nation. She grew up in Elliot Lake and in Sault Ste. Marie and has always loved drawing. Lisa’s art style developed from high school and has always been influenced by abstract art, but in her later years has become inspired by woodland art. She is currently starting a collection that is spiritually driven, now that she has more time in her later years.
Agawa Core
(Medium: Photo Print on Metal Canvas)
Artist: Jeff Dixon
Jeff Dixon is a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario, his photography serves as a visual exploration of the pristine landscapes that characterize the Algoma region, particularly around historic Sault Ste Marie. Focusing primarily on untouched natural environments, Jeff’s lens records the timeless allure of Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Whether capturing the skies with vibrant sunsets or unveiling the ancient secrets of the night sky through astro-photography, his work aims to transport viewers to a space that echoes the vistas witnessed by his Métis ancestors.
Untitled
Artist: Jessie Agawa
Muskosie Ningnsuite~Bear Cub Who Sees Ahead (time traveler), created this artwork in 2017.
Letter to the Seven Generations
(Medium: High Quality Print)
Artist: Binaakwe Giizis(Bee-naw-kway Gee-ziss) - Gabrielle Ayotte Pine
Binaakwe Giizis nindizhinikaz and my English name is Gabrielle. I belong to the Ajijaak Dodem and I am Ojibway from Ketegaunseebee known as Garden River First Nation, and Quebecor from Tio’tia:ke known as Montréal. I am the proud daughter of John Pine and Nancy Ayotte, and the proud grand-daughter of
Willard and Marie Pine. As an artist, my focus is on creating beadwork and acrylic paintings, but I also love to explore different mediums.
Through my art, I express my visions, dreams, and personal experiences. I am also a graduate student at York University currently completing my Masters of Education (MEd) in the Urban Indigenous Education Cohort. As a student and research assistant, I strive to develop methodologies to further understand the relationship between healing and Anishinaabe education. I work to be a part of the decolonization process to create positive change for all beings of Turtle Island. I am most inspired by my ancestors including Chief Shingwaukonse and my Ojibway family to continue the strong blood-line, to honor the past, and create a better future based on the seven generations’ way of being.
Interconnected
(Medium: Acrylic Paint)
Artist(s): Alexis Chapman (Kina Awiiya student) & Kim Edmond (Kina Awiiya teacher)
The Kina Awiiya Education Program was developed as a partnership with the Algoma District School Board for Urban Indigenous, lnuit, and Métis to have the opportunity to earn their Ontario secondary school diploma in a relaxed and cultural atmosphere. The program is based on individualized, independent courses. A unique style of programming where students can complete their high school diploma at their own pace while infusing First Nation cultural values and beliefs into the entire curriculum. The program also chooses project and activities designed with Indigenous heritage and cultural teachings in mind.
Stokely Haviland
(Medium: Photo print on metal canvas)
Artist: Jeff Dixon
Jeff Dixon is a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario, his photography serves as a visual exploration of the pristine landscapes that characterize the Algoma region, particularly around historic Sault Ste Marie. Focusing primarily on untouched natural environments, Jeff’s lens records the timeless allure of Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Whether capturing the skies with vibrant sunsets or unveiling the ancient secrets of the night sky through astro-photography, his work aims to transport viewers to a space that echoes the vistas witnessed by his Métis ancestors.
Bundles
Artist: Lacey Niganobe
Lacey Niganobe is an artist and esthetician from Mississaugi First Nation band #8. She has a lot of abilities when it comes to art. Her Esthetics business allows her to show self care, well being and creativity through nail art.
Untitled
(Medium: Painting on canvas)
Artist: Desmond Barry
Desmond Barry is Ojibway from Thessalon First Nation. He is a father, artist, entrepreneur, board game designer and author. Mr. Barry specializes in story telling through acrylic paints with traditional Ojibway designs.
North Channel
(Medium: Photo print on metal canvas)
Artist: Jeff Dixon
Jeff Dixon is a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario, his photography serves as a visual exploration of the pristine landscapes that characterize the Algoma region, particularly around historic Sault Ste Marie. Focusing primarily on untouched natural environments, Jeff’s lens records the timeless allure of Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Whether capturing the skies with vibrant sunsets or unveiling the ancient secrets of the night sky through astro-photography, his work aims to transport viewers to a space that echoes the vistas witnessed by his Métis ancestors.
Strength Working Together
(Medium: Framed canvas)
Artist: Simone McLeod
Simone McLeod is a Cree-Ojibway who is originally from Winnipeg, Canada. She is a member of the James Smith Cree Nation in Saskatchewan and has been artistically motivated from the age of thirteen. However, she did not pursue painting until much later in her life. Simone began by experimenting with various mediums such as pencil, ink, charcoal, and pastels. At that time, her subjects mainly consisted of human portraits and wildlife.
Maple Floor
(Medium: Photo print on metal canvas)
Artist: Jeff Dixon
Jeff Dixon is a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario, his photography serves as a visual exploration of the pristine landscapes that characterize the Algoma region, particularly around historic Sault Ste Marie. Focusing primarily on untouched natural environments, Jeff’s lens records the timeless allure of Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Whether capturing the skies with vibrant sunsets or unveiling the ancient secrets of the night sky through astro-photography, his work aims to transport viewers to a space that echoes the vistas witnessed by his Métis ancestors.
