mitho-ithiniw-kîsikanisik/Happy Indigenous People’s Day

Indigenous Nations possess a deep understanding of our interconnectedness with the world, nature, and all forms of life. We are all interdependent, relying on one another for our collective well-being. In today's disconnected society, our traditional knowledges and teachings hold profound significance.

This piece serves as a representation of how the wisdom of our Nations is firmly rooted in the fabric of the lands we originate from. The eagle symbolizes our protection and connection to the Spirit World, flying high and watching over our people.

On this National Indigenous Peoples Day, I am profoundly grateful for the work of Indigenous creators & community members; it brings me joy to witness the increasing opportunities for First Nations people that our families and ancestors did not always have. Today, and everyday, we deserve to be celebrated. We will not be confined to a single day of the year. We honour those who paved the way before us, and are proud to be Indigenous.

Caleb Ellison-Dysart is a nîhithaw (Cree) artist living on Coast Salish territories. His family comes from O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation & Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in Northern Manitoba, and the Twin Cities of Minnesota.

Caleb specializes in 3D Animation, Murals, Design & Illustration. His process-driven work is finely crafted to celebrate Cree culture and incorporate stories that centre around physical and spiritual connections to land. Depicting the internal and external relationship between all things. Follow Caleb on Instagram (@thetallestcree).