Biography

Elder for the Barrie Native Friendship Centre, Barrie, Ontario Elder for Georgian College Indigenous Studies, Barrie, Ontario Retired Native Language Teacher from Mnjikaning Kendaaswin Elementary School, Rama Ontario. Nwaatin-Kwe has resided in Barrie, Ontario for more than 40 years. She has 8 children, 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.   

Statement

I was inspired by the Round 2 of the Call to Action #83 art project. It has left me with so much hope. Hope is what I saw in the art pieces. In the first round of the Call to Action the art pieces showed that the eight Non-indigenous artists were working toward understanding the inter-generational trauma suffered by the Indigenous peoples because of colonialism and the residential school system. The Indigenous artists, through the stories in their artworks, were able to educate the Non-Indigenous artists.

In Round 2 of images, I was in awe at how the eight Non-Indigenous artists were able to capture the strength and spirit of the Indigenous peoples of this land. The story telling of the artists to the public will bring more knowledge and understanding of the truth and reconciliation. 

Chii Miigweech, 

Nwaatin Kwe. (Calm Water Woman) Chippewas of Nanwash Unceeded First Nation Neyaashiiningamiing, Ontario