ESPANOLA—The foyer at A.B. Ellis Public School in Espanola is now home to a striking 40-foot by 10-foot Indigenous mural. Approximately 47 students from Grades 4 to 8 helped paint the mural under the direction of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory artist Michael “Cy” Cywink and his apprentice Gerry Ranger of the Huron Wyandot.
“Each panel mirrors one of the Seven Grandfather Teachings of bravery, aakidewin; honesty, gwekwaadziwin;humility, dbaadendiziwin; love, zaagidwin; respect, mnaadendomowin; truth, debwewin; and wisdom, nbwaakaawin. There are three additional panels for community; kwiinwin, resilience; gshki-eziwin, and equity; bezhgonong, the values adopted by Rainbow District School Board in its strategic directions.
The mural, suitably themed ‘The Values In Life,’ took some 50 hours over a two-week period to complete. Student participants received a certificate of appreciation for their contribution.
The idea for the mural began with Principal Kendra Mihell who was looking to create a welcoming space in the school’s main entrance.
“We wanted a mural created by students to showcase the board’s new values, which are integral to our school community and character education,” said Ms. Mihell. “I reached out to RDSB staff in Indigenous education who were happy to support the initiative. They arranged for Michael Cywink to lead the venture.”
Since 2009, Mr. Cywink, an Odawa Anishinaabe registered with the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, has shared his teaching with thousands of students across Ontario. Also a curator and published author, Mr. Cywink crafts murals that depict clans (dodems, spirit helpers) and the Seven Grandfather teachings (Niizhwaaswi G’chi Mishoomsinaanik Kinoomadwinan).
“Art is therapy for my living spirit, a gift of historical recovery,” said Mr. Cywink. “It’s fulfilling for me as an Indigenous Elder and artist to share what I have learned with youth.”
Throughout the project Mr. Cywink often referenced the Seven Grandfather teachings and encouraged students to feel the colours, a process he deems a therapeutic way to engage in Reconciliation and health with colour and culture.
“My hope is that the mural will bring an understanding of truth,” said Mr. Cywink. “And that it leaves students with a greater sense of how each value can help them in learning and in life.” He expressed pride and gratitude for students and his apprentice. “I look for participation, not perfection, and teach that we are all equal in the circle with everybody making history at A.B. Ellis Public School in Espanola.”
“Miigwech to Michael Cywink and Gerry Ranger for helping our students develop a deeper understanding of traditional Indigenous practices and teachings through art,” said Ms. Mihell. “The result is a beautiful, meaningful and colourful masterpiece that will be enjoyed for many years to come.”
