Sc’ianew First Nation artists design community art piece for Rugby Americas North Sevens

At the Rugby Americas North Sevens in Langford this August, Sc’ianew First Nation artists Dahlila Charlie and Jeannie Chipps designed a community art piece that fans were invited to contribute to during the tournament.

Fans were invited to decorate hands or a paw print and add them to a large canvas as a way of showing their support and respect for the teams playing. Also painted on the canvas, which is now hung at the Al Charron National Training Centre, are the same designs engraved on the tournament medals.

Dahlila Charlie designed the gold medal’s two wolves:

The symbolism of the two wolves speaks volumes about teamwork and solidarity. Their back-to-back stance reflects a mutual commitment to support and protect each other, highlighting their independence. These wolves embody the essence of being responsible community members, not only within the confines of the field, but also in our broader lives. They stand as a reminder of the significance of unity and collaboration in both individual and collective pursuits.

Jeannie Chipps designed the silver medal’s octopus and the bronze medal’s raven:

The octopus symbolizes both intelligence and strength, showcasing its remarkable capacity to overcome challenges. Embraced by various cultures, the octopus embodies a spirit of perseverance crucial for navigating life’s intricate challenges.

The raven holds significant meaning and has a prominent role in Coast Salish culture. One of my earliest encounters with traditional stories was the tale of the raven, which left a lasting impression. I draw a parallel between the raven’s relentless pursuit to attain the sun and a player’s determination to achieve success. This connection captures the essence of striving for excellence and overcoming obstacles.

ABOUT DAHLILA CHARLIE

Step into the vibrant world of Dahlila Charlie, a gifted Coast Salish visual artist proudly rooted in the Beecher Bay (Sc’ianew) First Nation of Victoria, BC. With the medium of acrylic paint as her vessel, Dahlila masterfully combines the intricate Coast Salish formline with the vivid allure of realism, giving voice to the ancestral tales of her Nation.

Guided by the mentorship of esteemed Indigenous artists, Dahlila has honed her craft, crafting a distinctive artistic style that elegantly bridges cultural wisdom with a contemporary presence. Her art becomes a conduit through which cultural teachings come to life, while simultaneously carving out a space for her people’s narratives in the modern world.

Dahlila extends a heartfelt invitation to viewers to join in celebrating the profound beauty of the Coast Salish heritage—a heritage intrinsically interwoven with the land and ocean. Each stroke of her brush carries the echoes of generations past, resonating with a deep connection to nature.

ABOUT JEANNIE CHIPPS

Embark on a journey through the captivating artistry of Jeannie Chipps, a gifted Coast Salish mixed media artist hailing from the Sc’ianew First Nation. With an unwavering passion for creation that ignited when she first grasped a pencil, Jeannie’s artistic journey is a testament to her inate talent and dedication. Versatile in her approach, Jeannie seamlessly navigates between Traditional Coast Salish art, realism, and the realms of modern and contemporary expression.

Jeannie is currently working towards a Visual Arts Diploma at Camosun College. Her academic pursuit is further underscored by her recent achievement of receiving the Morrison Smelter Visual Arts Award. Join Jeannie Chipps on her artistic expedition, where cultural heritage meets boundless creativity.