Indigenous Art
“My people will sleep for one hundred years, but when they awake, it will be the artists who give them their spirit back.” – Louis Riel (July 4, 1885)
Viewing art can have profound benefits, both mentally and emotionally, and provides an opportunity for discovery, reflection, and stillness.
Indigenous art often features intricate patterns, symbols, and storytelling elements. For individuals from Indigenous communities, seeing their traditions, histories, and values reflected in art can strengthen their personal identity and promote a sense of belonging. For non-Indigenous individuals, viewing Indigenous artwork can lead to a greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse histories and cultural practices of Indigenous peoples.
Many Indigenous art forms, such as beadwork, carving, stitching, and painting, are tied to healing practices and ancestral knowledge that link the mind and spirit with the natural world. For more information on Indigenous art and crafts, visit our Indigenous Wellbeing | Mindfulness and Grounding Activities page.
Where to View Indigenous Art
The West Central Women’s Resource Centre has listed in-person galleries from across Manitoba that showcase Indigenous art: https://wcwrc.ca/indigenous-art-manitoba/
Online showcases of Indigenous art are available at: