LAC LA BICHE - A local youth is using her artistic abilities to not only honour her Cree and Métis heritage, but also to raise awareness about the plight of Canada’s missing and murdered indigenous women and girls (MMIW).
Growing up, Riley Gladue heard countless stories about the violence that takes place against Indigenous women and girls. The Grade 11 student at J.A. Williams High School in Lac La Biche felt moved to bring this glaring issue to the public consciousness in the form of a 45 by 92-inch painting hanging prominently in the school’s lobby.
“One of my teachers had a vision of the perfect painting and promptly discussed it with me,” Gladue stated. “National Week of Action was fast approaching, so I wanted to get started right away.”
Gladue set out with the goal of capturing the pain and suffering so many Indigenous women and girls have endured, creating an emotionally riveting backdrop of footprints in the snow lit by the glow of the iconic Northern Lights in the night sky. She added her own person touch in the form of the red handprint, which has become a widespread symbol across North America used to indicate solidarity with missing and murdered Indigenous women.
And while the powerful work of art embodies agony and distress, depicting a moose painted in traditional style carrying a woman through the snow to her home, it also conveys a sense of hope that those who’ve disappeared will eventually be reunited with their families.
“This project has proven that someone like me can make a difference and be an advocate for those who have no voice,” the teenage student said. “It holds a very special place in my heart.”
The painting has been displayed in the main entrance of the school, visible to all visitors and students.
The painting has garnered a considerable amount of positive feedback, with schoolmates, family, and community members.
“Many people have learned about this painting, and I have received overwhelming support for which I am grateful,” she said.
Gladue’s desire to celebrate and teach others about Indigenous culture and heritage through art has not been limited to this one captivating and thought-provoking piece. One of her most recent conceptions is the welcome sign for the high school’s outreach program, representing the traditional round dance.
“Round dances are all about community and bringing people together,” she said. “I chose this theme before beginning the project.”
Even once she graduates and pursues a career as a film make-up artist, Gladue’s artwork will always have a significant place in her life.
“This is such a deep-seated part of my culture. In the future, I want to learn more about traditional art such as beading, making ribbon skirts, moccasins, but also paintings depicting murdered and missing Indigenous women,” she said. “I not only want to be known as an artist, but as somebody who makes an impact.”
