And So the Journey Begins….
As I begin my journey in Banff, Alberta, I’m filled with awe and gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the Artist in Residence program for Indigenous Haute Couture. Today was the first day of what promises to be an inspiring month of creativity, connection, and deep reflection. Check Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok for today’s video!
We started the day with an orientation, which provided a thorough introduction to campus resources and gave us the chance to hear from a local Nakota elder. Her words were powerful and moving, as she spoke of the deep connection her people has with these lands that have been home to the Nakota Nation for thousands of years. The stories shared inspired grater appreciation for the stunning nature all around us and those who were here before us.
As part of the orientation, we participated in a sacred circle, a deeply spiritual and communal experience that allowed us to reflect on our intentions for the program. This ritual is central to many Indigenous cultures, and it felt particularly fitting in Banff, a place where the land itself holds so much significance for the people who have lived here for generations. The sacred circle is not just a way to welcome artists, but a reminder of the interconnectedness of all beings—humans, animals, plants, and the spirits of the land. We were blessed to hear our Elder sing a song for us, calling our spirits to the lands here to be connected with the spirits here and ready to receive our gifts of creativity. It was so moving, and something I will never forget.
Another highlight of the day was learning about the local wildlife. Banff National Park is home to a wide variety of animals, from the majestic elk that roam freely through town to the bears who are just waking up from hibernation. We were given important information about how to safely coexist with these wild neighbors. Understanding their role in the ecosystem, both spiritually and physically, adds a layer of respect for the natural world that I will carry with me throughout my time here.
One of the most striking features of Banff is the landscape itself—towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. But perhaps the most iconic of all is the Sleeping Buffalo Mountain, a name that holds deep significance for the Indigenous peoples of this area.
The name “Sleeping Buffalo” comes from the Nakota and other Indigenous groups in the region, who have long revered the mountain as a sacred guardian. According to local stories, the mountain takes the form of a great buffalo lying on its side, watching over the land. The buffalo, an animal central to the survival and spiritual life of many Plains Indigenous nations, is seen as a protector, a symbol of strength, and a provider. For the Nakota and other Indigenous peoples, the buffalo was not only a physical source of sustenance but also a spiritual guide, embodying the balance between the earth and its people. In many ways, the Sleeping Buffalo Mountain serves as a protector of the land and its people, watching over the valley.
As I settle into my private artist studio and begin working on my pieces, I can’t help but feel inspired by the energy of this place. The landscape, the stories, and the people surrounding me are already leaving a profound impact on my life. Though much of the next few days will be dedicated to administrative tasks and setting up, I have already begun sketching and brainstorming concepts for the pieces I will create during this residency. The influence of the land, the wildlife, and the teachings of the Nakota elder will undoubtedly shape every aspect of my work.
I look forward to sharing more of this journey with you as I continue to explore the artistic, cultural, and spiritual elements of this place. I’m only on day one, but I can already tell this experience will be life-changing.
Thank you for following along on this adventure. Stay tuned for more updates, photos, and videos as I dive deeper into this incredible month of creation, learning, and connection.
