A new public art piece in High River aims to honour both Indigenous and settler histories.
High River is carving out space, literally and figuratively, for its history to be seen, shared, and honoured. A new community tree carving art project in George Lane Memorial Park will feature a tree carving that highlights figures connected to the region’s past, while also giving attention to important Indigenous figures. Backed by the Town and guided by collaboration with Jared Tailfeathers, the Highwood Museum and the community, the project aims to reflect the complexity of High River’s story.
As plans move forward, Indigenous artists are invited to help shape similar future public art that speaks to truth, respect, and shared heritage.
During its August 11 meeting, Town Council approved $5,000 in funding for a tree carving in George Lane Memorial Park. The funding will cover materials and artist fees for the project, which is expected to begin in September and take approximately one week to complete.
The tree, located in one of the park’s group sites, will be carved with the faces of prominent historical figures connected to High River and the surrounding area.
Jocelyn Dunsmore, Community Development Liaison Officer with The Town of High River, says the project is intended to reflect the people who shaped the community’s past. Local artist Darren Jones will complete the carving.
The list of names is currently being reviewed to ensure each individual had a meaningful connection to the land now known as High River.
Lee Peckham, High River Tree Art Committee, is and has been in collaboration with the Highwood Museum and Jared Tail Feathers to help ensure that prominent and historic figures are displayed, as well as Indigenous stories are front and centre.
As the committee and town look ahead towards the future of similar community art projects, Indigenous artists are invited to get involved. Peckham, encourages Blackfoot and Stony Nakoda creators to reach out and help shape how High River tells its story in this way — past, present, and future.
HEAR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH LEE PECKHAM HERE:
Multidisciplinary Southern Alberta Artist, Jared Tailfeathers, has been a massive part of this project as well. We also has a chance to speak with him about being a part of this community project.
HEAR THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE:
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