Eagle Protector Journal
Original Indigenous Design by Ojibway artist William Monague (1956-2019)
The self-taught Beausoleil First Nation artist, William Anthony Monague, grew up on an isolated island with no access to formal education or training in the arts. Monague - "Abwaudung" (The Visionary or Dreamer) discovered inspiration in the traditional teachings of Mother Earth, Spirit World and in the beauty of nature and in the Georgian Bay shores that surrounded him. Innitially he was using the woodland style but soon developed his own more contemporary style of art. During the 1970's and 80's Monague followed the Powwow circuit in a van with his family down to Mexico. His work ended up in various museums and galleries along the way.
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.