Gallery and Stories behind the Artwork

Mi’kmaq Hieroglyphic Prayers

In this print, Grandmother, dressed in traditional Mi’kmaq regalia, is handing down the written Mi’kmaq prayers known as hieroglyphs. In the foreground is the sign of the cross and looking up to the sky, is the Lord’s Prayer. the Mi’kmaq believed in turtle teachings that say the double curve symbolizes life and the star or sun is the giver of life.

Petroglyph Eight-Pointed Star

This print emphasize the sacred eight-pointed petroglyph star as the giver of all life. The petroglyph is the oldest known Mi’kmaq rock carving dated to be pre-European contact. There is a Mi’kmaq legend that says when sea water is poured onto the star, it will turn brilliant colors and shapes similar to the rocks in Labrador. The linear root pattern represent Mother Earth.

Beginning of a New Cycle

This black and white print depicts the interconnectedness of salmon (plamu) and bear (muin), two important food and life sources for the Mi’kmaq Nation. Sightings of the swallows mark the beginning of a new cycle as they signal the return of the salmon to the river. Mi’kmaq fisherman have been preparing for this time - the Mi’kmaq new year. They offer prayers and thanks to muin, revered as the greatest fisherman for the return of the plamu.

Mi’kmaq Petroglyph Moosehunt

This print portrays the theme of the moosehunt. The Mi’kmaq Nation depended on the moose for clothing and nourishment. The hourglass symbolizes the timeless tradition of the Mi’kmaq

Mi’kmaq Petroglyph Ocean

This print depicts the relationship between the ocean and Mother Earth and the interconnectedness of those who live upon and within. The sacred Mi’kmaq petroglyphs of the whale (a sign of safe travel) and the woman and man in the canoe (honoring the relationship with the ocean for travel and food) and vibrantly colored symbols and design patterns that commonly adorn the dresses of Mi’kmaq women representing important aspects of Mi’kmaq life.

Grandmother and Grandfather Sacred Sweat

This black and white print describes the sacred Mi’kmaq sweat or purification ceremony. First, thanks are given and prayers offered to the four directions. The star-like figures are the good spirits and there is no need to fear. The twelve circles, or fire rocks, represent the Grandfather stones. Grandfather is wearing a Mi’kmaq roach, the traditional headdress of the Mi’kmaq chiefs and the lucky duck’s foot necklace. Grandmother is beautiful in her traditional peaked hat adorned with the double curve symbolizing life.