Brush of The Ancestors

 Brush of The Ancestors!

In more ways than one, Indigenous art is more than just a visual expression; it is living history carried through many generations to this day.

It is essential and exciting to acknowledge and embrace the beauty of historic First Nation culture and beliefs through art. Art is a form of communication that words themselves cannot express. 

According to The Canadian Encyclopedia, Indigenous art dates back as far as 80,000 years. 

Take a LOOK!

Canadian Encyclopedia: Bone, Queen Charlotte Islands, BC, Haida (courtesy ROM).

    Indigenous art not only allows its audience to feel moved by its visual presence but also to embrace the cultural traditions, stories, and history, as it carries weight from the time period in which it was made. From visual arts, to textiles & beads, to carvings, paintings, performances and ceremonies, all of these forms of art work together to tell stories. Many common themes and backstories behind art have significance, whether that be a connection to the land, representation of spiritual beliefs, an attempt at cultural identity, or even historic stories. 

Indigenous art, although historic to Canadian identity, is also inspiring and admirable to reflect on and think about the perseverance that went into capturing and resembling identity despite settler colonialism and white supremacy. First Nation traditions and culture remained grounded despite these disruptions and continue to live and breathe through their artistic work.

Art created by our Indigenous ancestors in the Indigenous communities allowed their spirit and identity to be carried on, providing a new lens to be looked through and appreciated, as we are taught truth, resilience, community, and spirit through these colourful artistic lenses. 

Going Back, Or Home - Isaac Weber (Henvy Inlett First Nation)

They say, "A picture is worth a thousand words." This statement couldn't be more true as the author of this art piece "Going Back, Or Home," provides his own statement on the intentions behind his piece. 

Isaac Weber himself says "This is because it speaks about the will power of the newer generations to head back and to look for those ancient teachings. There are a few different factors at play and the composition is definitely influenced in a more contemporary way."

The artist himself claims his artwork is meant to speak for itself, as it is meant to share power wth the new generation to reflect on ancient teachings and spread the stories and heritage so that it may live on. 

"For a person of my descent it speaks in a way of getting a family together and look for those teachings and a healthy life style and spirituality that is symbolized by the white horse the two subjects ride on."

-Isaac Weber

GALLERY of WOODLAND ART...

About Myself... 

Hi,  my name is Mia-Rose Vieira. 

I am a 19 year-old graduate from Emily Carr Secondary school. 

I am an art lover, especially considering the community and school that I grew up in. 

Living down the street from the McMichael's Art Gallery, where they store Emily Carr's artwork, as well as the Group of Seven, allowed me to feel inspired by nature and culture that took place where I live. The art that they offer serves as historical art pieces, as well as ancient stories on their connection, beliefs, and spirit to the land we live on. 

I believe knowing and embracing the history of the land you grew up on allows you to have respect and appreciation for where you live, even if you learn it through artwork!

References: 

• Vastokas, J. (2019). History of Indigenous Art in Canada. In The Canadian Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/aboriginal-art-in-canada

• (2014). Indigenous Arts & Stories. In The Canadian Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/indigenous-arts-stories
• 
  
• Weber, I. (n.d.). Going back or home. Indigenous Arts & Stories. Retrieved December 4, 2025, from http://www.our-story.ca/winners/arts/4007:going-back-or-home our-story.ca