On Saturday July 26th we continued our Ohné:ka Healing Project as part of the Akwesasne Art Market, showcasing two artist painted paddle boards, and our community paddle board mural.

The first artist painted paddle board was completed by IAC member, Kit Thomas (https://indigenousartscollective.org/kit-thomas-kit.../). Kit designed a fun and vibrant otter mural, using rich earthy tones and Water elements, we were in awe of Kit’s vision and amazed by the finished piece!

The second paddle board was completed by IAC member, Victoria Ransom (https://indigenousartscollective.org/victoria-ransom/). Victoria did an incredible job designing a piece in honor of Sierra Johnson-Sunday Caldwell. Thank you, Victoria, for your beautiful and respectful depiction of Sierra, and thank you to the Johnson family for allowing us to honor Sierra in this way.

Our community paddle board was designed by Akwesasne local, Morgan Kahsennaientákie Roundpoint. Morgan captured the look and feel of the local Waters of Akwesasne by including a sturgeon and snapping turtle alongside Haudenosaunee inspired designs. This paddle board was presented to the public where we encouraged community members to write messages of healing, hope, love, and encouragement to the Water within Morgan’s mural. This paddle board, along with the others will be taken out on local bodies of Water with an Indigenous paddle board guide. When the paddle board’s bottom is placed on the Water’s surface, these words and messages will touch the surface of the Water, and be “given” to Her with good intentions.

A huge thank you goes to Akwesasne Travel for allowing us to share our project and participate in this community event. We also want to take the time to thank the Roundpoint family, Dawn Iehstoseranónnha, Abraham Francis, Sarah Konwahahawi Rourke, Water Rangers, Cruiser SUP, Earth Paints Canada and our funders, Canada Council for the Arts and Heritage Canada. We are so grateful for your help and support.