In September of 2021, I was awarded the Nakaatchihtow grant, which allowed me to develop an idea I had to use portraiture as a way of honouring Elders, supporting artists, and celebrating activists in the Métis Nation. The grant, awarded by the Métis Nation of British Columbia, allowed for a great deal of freedom and creativity, which is what made an exhibition of this size possible. The exhibit was hosted by the Massy Gallery in Vancouver, BC in 2022. The portraits were then showcased in a book titled, Métis Now: Elders, Artists, and Activists, a zero carbon emission publication printed by Hemlock Press. One of the most inspiring and rewarding creative experiences of my life, bringing this project to fruition was a blessing and an honour.
These images were hand drawn digitally and printed on 16" X 16" 100% post consumer recycled aluminum. I am grateful to be working with mediums that generate minimal waste and utilize pre-existing materials.
