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The , and the Indigenous, Local and Global Health Office at the Cumming School of Medicine, Áù¾ÅÉ«Ìà have come together to fund an Indigenous arts initiative.ÌýDriving this initiative is the desire to showcaseÌýmore visual arts pieces which reflect Indigenous culture, tradition and storytelling which could influence policy and decision making by challenging us to think differently.

This is an opportunity for an Indigenous artist mentor and artist mentees to create a large muralÌýfor display above the Feasby Student Lounge in the Cumming School of Medicine. This mural will give Indigenous artists residing within theÌýTreaty 7 regionÌý(Blackfoot Confederacy, Tsuut’tina, Stoney Nakoda, and Métis) a space to express their perspectives on inclusion, health and healing.Ìý And to create a space that is welcoming to and inclusive of Indigenous peoples.Ìý

Art can function as a basic form of communication regardless of language and background to influence the health of individuals and society.ÌýIt holds a transformative power that extends beyond the visual aspect of an art piece and can offer connection and insight into larger societal questions and concerns.ÌýThis is an opportunity for everyone to learn through artistic expression every time they pass the mural. This initiative will inspire us to challenge our preconceived notions of history and memory, and generate conversations around new ways of thinking and feeling.

This art initiative is in alignment with the Cumming School of Medicine’s recommendations for appropriate engagement and inclusion, and with principles of ii’ taa’poh’to’p, the Áù¾ÅÉ«ÌÃ’s Indigenous Strategy. We look forward to engaging with the Indigenous community, academic community and arts community throughout this process.

If you are interested in applying for the role of Indigenous Artist Mentor, details can be found in the

If you are interested in applying for the role of Indigenous Artist Mentee, details can be found in the

Questions about the project can be directed to the Project Coordinator, Dawn Saunders Dahl. Ìý

Sincerely,

The Indigenous Mural Project Team

The Indigenous, Local and Global Health Office

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