Health alliance unveils Indigenous art at Wallaceburg site

To help foster equity, diversity and inclusion, the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance unveiled the first Indigenous art piece at its Wallaceburg site.

The piece, created by Walpole Island First Nation resident Mariah Alexander, is titled Revitalizing River and it’s located in the emergency department waiting room.

“This art piece was created to encourage healing by connecting people to their land and family,” Alexander said in a release.

“On top of an image I captured of the Snye River, sturgeon and flowers flow into one another. Sturgeon represents depth and strength, as well as connection to ancestors and teachings. The florals symbolize regeneration. The strength of our ancestors, loved ones, and the land flows within you.”

The Indigenous artwork is part of the hospital’s innovation grant program, which offers staff, physicians, volunteers and patient advisers the chance to bring forward ideas to make positive change at the hospital.

Earlier this year, the hospital’s WeRCKHA staff engagement council voted on the grant submissions. Indigenous artwork for the Wallaceburg site was chosen as one of the seven $1,000 recipients.

The health alliance put out a call for Indigenous artists to submit an application, with Alexander chosen as the successful candidate.

“This artwork celebrates the youth in our community and their contributions to sharing Indigenous teachings and knowledge. Revitalizing River speaks to our collective journey towards a future where Indigenous traditions and culture are nurtured,” said Chief Dan Miskokomon, Walpole Island First Nation and health alliance board member.

“I am pleased this piece created by Ms. Alexander will become a permanent part of CKHA’s Wallaceburg site and will be enjoyed by many for years to come.”

Lori Marshall, health alliance president and chief executive, said the piece adds beauty to the hospital but also serves as a symbol of the commitment to embracing diversity within the organization.

“We are honored to have Ms. Alexander’s artwork displayed and hope that it will inspire meaningful conversations and foster a greater understanding of Indigenous culture,” she said.

Noting she appreciated having the opportunity, Alexander hopes the message of her artwork resonates with those at the hospital.

“My hope is that this piece will bring those healing the comforts of the water and land, as well as connect people to the strength of their ancestors and family,” she said. “Miigwech to my community, friends, and family for thinking of me for your art needs and supporting me always.”