Word art installation spurs reconciliation conversation

A new art installation is hoping to spur the discussion on reconciliation at the University of Winnipeg.

Using only paper and black markers, the straight-to-the-point seven by 10 foot piece aims to use words to convey thoughts and feelings on reconciliation.

"We have to outline the realities that occurred here, which have been lost over for many generations," said Cheyenne artist Edgar Heap of Birds, who hosted the art initiative. He added he had already been doing this format of art for around 20 years.

An act of reconciliation

The collaborative nature of over 50 people contributing to the installation, Heap of Birds said, is what's necessary to foster healing and moving forward.

"People that might not have been like-minded came together: different races, different cultures and created something together. So as an act, it's a great symbol of how do you get along with the global community.

"Art is very immediate and comprehensive, and it's exploratory, investigative and expressive."

Kevin Settee, president of the University of Winnipeg Student Association, recognizes his contributions to the project as addressing what he sees as a "contentious word."

"I think it's important that we collectively look at it and figure out how we can move forward," Settee said.

"These conversations are needed, these actions are needed in order for people to get stuff off their minds, off their bodies, their spirits."

'America is a dangerous place'

When asked on how Canada tackles Indigenous issues compared to the United States, Heap of Birds commended the foresight of his northern friends, also drawing attention to the apparent denial of Native American issues down south.

"Canada is trying to heal its wounds," he said. "There's much more in the media about native affairs here and in the U.S. there's really nothing about us.

"The question is so difficult they ignore it, and you can't make any progress that way."

The art installation is part of the Pathways to Reconciliation conference, which runs at the University of Winnipeg until June 17. The piece will then spend the summer hanging at Stella's Cafe on Portage Ave.