ƛaʔuukʷiatḥ Vision Mural

Showing ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ relationship with Earth Air Fire and Water, the elements which bring us tiičmis, life

About the ƛaʔuukʷiatḥ Vision Mural

In the summer of 2018, Tla-o-qui-aht youth participated in the creation of a 20’ x 6’ mural, representing cultural teachings, stories, & values of their community. Local artist and cultural educator, Gisele Maria Martin, led the project, with assistance from seasoned visiting muralist Fanny Aishaa and under the guidance of local culture keepers and Elders. The mural was painted over a 3 week period in the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations community of Ty-Histanis. It became a central community location for artistic creation and a positive social environment for local youth and community members of all generations. The mural was unveiled to the public at the 2018 Carving on the Edge Festival and was the feature presentation during our opening ceremonies. A closing celebration was held for the local community before the mural was publicly presented at the festival and youth that were engaged in the mural project (and others) were encouraged to participate in our bursary program for carving workshops. Many enthusiastic youth took advantage of this opportunity. Emerging artist, Payton George, age 7, was inspired to create his own mural - “My Grey Whales” - which was also showcased at the Carving on the Edge Festival.

Participation of community members of all generations was encouraged throughout the collaborative artistic process of creating the mural. Approximately 10 adults and 20 youth participated in the creation of the mural. The site of mural creation became a hub for sharing stories, wisdom, and cultural teachings as community members of all generations would pass by and contribute to the collective knowledge that was being represented through painted images. Joe Martin, local artist and culture keeper, participated in painting and would tell stories to the youth about the different images and teachings depicted on the mural. Marika Swan shared her research through the Nuu-chah-nulth Living Archive project to provide inspiration for the mural vision and painted a magnificent sun. Levi Martin provided much cultural guidance.

The mural was painted and temporarily exhibited in a public space next to the Tiic-Mis-Aq'kin Health Centre in Ty-Histanis and is currently in safe storage while we determine an appropriate permanent space for its long term stewardship. ​

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