(City of Prince Albert)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Art Project

Planned P.A. artwork aimed at highlighting Indigenous injustices getting closer to fruition

Mar 14, 2022 | 7:09 PM

One of the country’s first art pieces recognizing the past injustices Indigenous people have faced is close to being created in Prince Albert.

The city’s council met on Monday for an executive committee meeting where they gave the first approval for the project “Passage Home” which plans to highlight what happened at day schools, residential schools, and during the Sixties Scoop.

They still need to approve the project one more time at a council meeting before it’s official.

It will be created by Indigenous artist Mary Longman who’s seen her work showcased across Canada, including in Regina and Saskatoon.

Councillor Tony Head told paNOW he sees this art piece playing a big part towards reconciliation.

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“It’s righting a wrong with dignity and respect… I hope (residents) do recognize this piece of art.”

If approved, around $223,000 will be used.

Since 2017, the city’s public art working group has set aside a portion of its annual budget to help fund the project, eventually saving around $123,000. The remaining $100,000 is coming from the federal government after Longman applied for a grant.

The piece has been in the works for years with a strong message, however, the recent findings of mass graves at former residential schools is making it even more relevant.

“I remember when working with the committee and we made this plan and started saving but I honestly didn’t realize it would be this meaningful,” added Judy MacLeod Campbell, Arts and Cultural Coordinator for the City of P.A.

Designs have already been finished with Longman planning to create a bronze sculpture of a traditional travois carrier which was used to carry loads over land. It will also include a healing garden.

“It’s a place of peace and harmony and I think the public will really enjoy it,” said Longman who attended Monday’s meeting virtually.

The plan is to start work immediately after it gets the final approval. Longman, along with the city’s public art working group, is hoping to find everything they need locally.

The hope is to unveil it at Scarrow Plaza on Sept. 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow