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A FAMILY REIMAGINED COIN PURSE

Original First Nations Canadian Design by Anishinaabe Artist Cody Houle

Growing up with intergenerational trauma and colonialism, Houle felt shame and guilt about being native; now, hid art allows him to show pride and strength in being an Indigenous man.

For him, paintings are teachings as long as one is open to learning the stories shared; great artists from the past can be mentors for the next generation of visionaries; works available for study feature techniques and stylized choices that unavoidably provide lessons in art and philosophy. Houle believes it is important to share art to inspire hope and encourages anyone (especially youth!) to create for the sake of creating; to express themselves and give their expression to their lives because Indigenous life is art!

The Fort Museum of the NWMP and First Nations Interpretive Centre is grateful to have the opportunity to meet and work on Treaty 7 territory. As settlers on these lands, it is important to acknowledge that we are located on the unceded territory of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot Nation), including Siksika, Piikani, Kainai, the Tsuut’ina Nation and the Stoney Nakoda First Nations, as well as the Metis Nation Region 3. We want to express our respect for the territory we reside in and honour the diverse Indigenous People who have lived and worked on this land historically and presently. We, the staff, and leadership at The Fort Museum, are committed to being active participants in reconciliation. We are committed to actively working through programs and displays to decolonize the Blackfoot voice in our spaces.