A new Indigenous mural at Western University helps tell the creation story. “And it’s important for us to take care of the water and the earth because she can’t speak for herself. And so, we always honour the water,” said Western Indigenous Elder in Residence, Mary Lou Smoke. She was addressing a group gathered at the Thames Hall Jeff and Shelley Parr Family Atrium for the unveiling of a new Anishinabek mural by Saugeen First Nation Indigenous artist Jeanette Ladd. “So, it’s about how the earth came to be on the back of a turtle shell,” Ladd explained. The mural is a row of seven paintings hanging over the atrium, which tells the story of Turtle Island. “And the thought was that it was going to be about the creation story. And from there, I wanted to fit within the atrium space. So, with the living wall, the wood panels, the skylights, I wanted that to reflect in my piece as well,” Ladd said. The event is part of the leadup to Truth and Reconciliation Day, Sept. 30. “They call upon us to learn from the past, to confront the ongoing impacts of colonialism, and to work together toward a more equitable future. This mural stands as a reminder of that responsibility, and of the work that remains ahead,” said Dr. Shaun Boe, Dean of Health Sciences. As for Ladd, she hopes her work sends a positive message. “The animals, the land, the water. The moon, the sun, the sky. All of those things are connected. And you can’t have one without the others,” she said.
