A powerful celebration of culture, creativity, and reconciliation will unfold across three St. Clair Catholic schools on Monday, May 12, 2025, as students and community members gather to unveil collaborative Indigenous art installations created with prominent Anishinaabe artists.
The installations are the result of months of work between students and artists Cedric Isaac of Bkejwanong Territory, John Williams of Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and Moses Lunham of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. Each piece tells a unique story, rooted in the identity of its school and enriched by shared learning, respect for the land, and the voices of those who call it home.
The unveiling celebrations will take place at Holy Family, Christ the King, and St. Elizabeth Catholic Schools, with each event incorporating prayer, music, and remarks from the artists. A short video will also be screened at each school, documenting the collaborative creative process and the relationships formed along the way.
“These collaborative pieces are a powerful reflection of our commitment to truth and reconciliation,” said Lisa Demers, Director of Education for the St. Clair Catholic District School Board. “They honour the deep cultural roots of the Indigenous communities that surround our schools, while also celebrating the creativity and curiosity of our students. This is art with heart, and a lasting legacy of learning and connection.”
Cortnee Goure, the board’s Indigenous Education Lead, emphasized the broader significance of the project, noting how it brought together students, staff, artists, Elders, and Knowledge Carriers in a meaningful way. “Every panel carries meaning and experience together. These installations are not just artwork—they’re living lessons, reminding us of the strength of relationship and the importance of representation for students to see themselves in their learning, and of honouring Indigenous voices and firsthand learning in our schools.”
Families and members of the broader community are invited to attend the celebrations, which mark not only the unveiling of art, but the deepening of understanding and connection across cultures and generations.
