Jackie Traverse's Cultural Background and How It Influences Her Art
Jackie Traverse is a Cree artist whose cultural background plays a significant role in her artwork. Growing up, Traverse learned about traditional Indigenous art forms from her family and community. However, she also experienced the traumatic effects of residential schools - institutions created by the Canadian government that forcibly removed Indigenous children from their families and culture to assimilate them into Euro-Canadian society.
Traverse's experience with residential schools has influenced both the content and style of her artwork. She often explores themes of healing, resilience, and identity through vibrant colors and bold lines. As she explains: "My work speaks to my own journey as an Indigenous person ... [and] it reflects my desire for change."
Traverse's connection to Edmonton is also reflected in her work - particularly in her series of hand-painted plates inspired by local landmarks such as the High Level Bridge and Muttart Conservatory. By incorporating images of these familiar places into her art, Traverse creates a sense of belonging for those who call Edmonton home.
Overall, Jackie Traverse's artistic style is deeply rooted in her Cree heritage and personal experiences with colonialism. Through powerful imagery that celebrates Indigenous resilience while acknowledging past traumas, she offers viewers an opportunity to connect with Indigenous culture on a deeper level.
If you're interested in learning more about Jackie Traverse or supporting Indigenous artists like her, consider checking out organizations such as the Aboriginal Curatorial Collective or visiting local galleries that showcase contemporary Indigenous art.
The Inspiration Behind the Bringing Good Medicine Plates
The Design Elements of the Bringing Good Medicine Plates
The Bringing Good Medicine plates designed by Jackie Traverse are a beautiful example of Indigenous art. Each plate has a unique design with different elements and symbols that represent various aspects of Indigenous culture. The designs on these plates include traditional patterns, images of animals such as bears, birds, and wolves, flowers like wild roses and sunflowers, as well as other nature-based motifs.
According to Jackie Traverse "I was inspired by my grandmother's teachings about plants and herbs she used in her medicinal remedies." She further added "These plates showcase those teachings through vibrant colours and intricate details."
Each element on the plate holds significant meaning in Indigenous culture. For instance, wild roses symbolize love while sunflowers denote respect. Similarly, bears signify strength and wisdom whereas eagles represent courage.
The Significance of the Bringing Good Medicine Plates in Indigenous Culture
Indigenous cultures hold great value for their traditions; hence each aspect embodies an important significance within it. In this regard, bringing good medicine plates are no exception. These plates have been used throughout history during feasts or gatherings where food is served to ensure that blessings are bestowed upon everyone who partakes in the meal.
As per Jackie Traverse - "Bringing good medicine means having positive energy around you at all times" implying how important it is for an individual to keep themselves surrounded with positivity always.
In addition to their ceremonial use at gatherings or feasts among friends or family members; these gorgeous pieces can also be hung up on walls making them perfect decorative pieces for any home or office space.
Overall the indigenous designed bringing good medicine plates not only serve as functional dinnerware but also act as a reminder to stay connected with Mother Nature by using natural ingredients whenever possible; they remind us that we need to nurture our relationships with both people around us & nature alike.
If you're interested in learning more about Jackie Traverse's work or supporting Indigenous artists like her then check out https://www.jackietraverse.com/.
How Edmonton Plays a Role in Traverse's Art and Life
Edmonton has played a significant role in Jackie Traverse's life and art. Traverse moved to Edmonton as a young girl, where she grew up and eventually began her career as an artist. She explains that "Edmonton is home for me... I have roots here." Her connection to the city can be seen through her various art installations throughout Edmonton, including the mural at Boyle Street Community Services and the sculpture at NorQuest College.
Traverse has also been involved in the community by using her talents to give back. In 2017, she worked with youth from iHuman Youth Society to create a mural celebrating Indigenous culture on their building located in downtown Edmonton. She also participated in The Works Art & Design Festival, which showcases artists from across Canada, and was commissioned by them to create an installation titled "All My Relations" which celebrated Indigenous women.
Traverse sees her artwork as a way of sharing knowledge about Indigenous culture with others: "My work is all about telling stories... It's important for me to share my story because it helps people understand who we are as Indigenous people." Through her art installations in Edmonton, Traverse is able to educate those within the community about Indigenous culture while simultaneously creating beautiful pieces of artwork.
By combining traditional techniques such as beadwork and quillwork with contemporary mediums like ceramic plates or mixed media sculptures, Traverse creates unique works of art that celebrate both past traditions and modern-day interpretations of Indigeneity. When asked how she incorporates this duality into her work, Traverse explains that "I'm not trying to make something new; I'm just putting my own twist on things."
Overall, Jackie Traverse's connection to Edmonton runs deep through both personal ties and artistic endeavors. By utilizing public spaces within the city for murals and sculptures celebrating Indigenous culture while also participating in local arts festivals like The Works Art & Design Festival , she continues to share knowledge about Indigeneity with others living within or visiting Edmonton.
The Significance of Authentic Indigenous Art in Today's Society
Authentic Indigenous art plays a vital role in preserving culture, promoting understanding, and combating stereotypes. It allows Indigenous communities to share their stories and traditions through visual representation. Jackie Traverse emphasizes the importance of authentic Indigenous artwork by stating, "It's important for people to see work that is actually done by Indigenous artists because it gives them a sense of who we are as a people."
Indigenous art serves as a bridge between cultures, allowing non-Indigenous individuals to gain insight into the rich history and heritage of Indigenous peoples. It also provides an opportunity for dialogue and understanding between different groups. As artist Kent Monkman notes, "Art can break down barriers...it has the power to shift consciousness."
Furthermore, authentic Indigenous artwork challenges harmful stereotypes perpetuated by colonialism and mainstream media. By showcasing diverse styles and themes unique to each community or artist, it highlights the complexity and individuality of these cultures.
However, with the rise in popularity of faux “Native-inspired” designs produced without permission or compensation from artists or communities themselves - cultural appropriation remains an issue in maintaining authenticity within this industry.
How the Plates Make a Great Addition to any Edmonton Home
The Bringing Good Medicine Plates designed by Jackie Traverse are not only a beautiful piece of Indigenous artwork, but they also hold significant cultural meaning. These plates can add a unique and meaningful touch to any home in Edmonton. As Jackie explains, "The designs on these plates represent the Anishinaabe medicine wheel teachings and how we need balance in our lives." Incorporating this symbolism into your home decor allows you to connect with Indigenous culture and values.
There are many ways to display or use these plates in your home. They can be hung on walls as art pieces, displayed on shelves or stands, or even used for serving food during special occasions. The options are endless! As Jackie suggests, "They make great conversation starters at dinner parties."
Not only do these plates look stunning in any room of the house, but they also support Indigenous artists and their communities. By purchasing authentic Indigenous artwork like the Bringing Good Medicine Plates instead of mass-produced imitations, you are supporting cultural preservation and economic growth within Indigenous communities.
Incorporating authentic Indigenous artwork into your home is an important step towards reconciliation with Canada's First Nations peoples. As Jackie states: "It's about bringing awareness that we have a rich culture here that is still alive." So why not add a unique touch to your Edmonton home while supporting local artists?
To purchase Bringing Good Medicine Plates or other authentic Indigenous art pieces please visit https://www.birchbarkco.com/
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jackie Traverse's Indigenous designed plates are more than just decorative pieces; they tell a story of the artist's cultural heritage and connection to Edmonton. It is important to support Indigenous artists like Jackie Traverse by purchasing their artwork and preserving their cultural heritage. As Jackie herself has said, "Art is not a hobby for us, it's how we survive." By supporting Indigenous artists, we can ensure that their stories and traditions continue to be shared with future generations. It is also important to approach Indigenous art and culture with respect and sensitivity, avoiding stereotypes or appropriation. To learn more about supporting Indigenous artists and communities, check out resources such as the Aboriginal Curatorial Collective or the First Nations Development Institute. Let us all do our part in promoting diversity and inclusivity through art appreciation!