The Red Lake Regional Heritage Centre

Carolyn Spicer
Carolyspice@yahoo.ca

This is my second year painting a banner for the OutdoorArt Gallery. My first banner was of my daughters in jingle dresses. I wanted to design another banner with an aboriginal theme but it also had to follow this year’s “pioneering” theme. I was

encouraged to try the Woodland style of art this time, a style that was in fact pioneered in this area by Norval Morriseau. I was also inspired by the beautiful artwork of Roy Thomas. I chose images and symbols that I connect with as well as those that reflect who I am and what is important to me.

The figure at the bottom of my banner shows the back of an aboriginal woman sitting cross-legged. This represents me as well as other strong Aboriginal female influences in my life. My aboriginal ancestry is very important to me. I want to learn and understand more about this culture, which I find to be very empowering and inspirational. The three eagle feathers signify my three children who are a constant source of joy and pride to me. I included the turtle to represent the legend of Turtle Island, an important story to the Ojibwa people, which I have always found interesting. I had originally planned on an image of a sun for the top of the banner, but I was informed that a snowflake might be more appropriate since I have an extensive snowflake collection and am therefore known as the “Snowflake Queen”. I think it was the right choice. The line running from the woman at the bottom through all the images on the banner shows my connection to all of these things. My banner is blue because it is my favourite colour.

In the end, my banner has a fairly simple design. I’m happy with the result and want to thank Rhonda for all her tireless help and advice. Once again, producing a banner was a very fun and positive experience. I hope to get an opportunity to do it again some day.

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