'Tribal Journeys,' 2020. Acrylic on canvas. 10ft. X 10ft. Lummi Nation
What does this potlatch mean to you? People responded with color.
In July 2019, the Lummi Nation hosted the annual Tribal Canoe Journey, welcoming over 10,000 guests and more than 100 canoes to their shores in a celebration of Coast Salish traditions and unity. During this six-day potlatch, a significant cultural gathering featuring ceremonies, songs, dances, and communal meals, a participatory mural was created to commemorate the event.
Over the course of three days, 150 participants collaborated to produce an 11-foot by 11-foot mural. This collective artwork encapsulates stories of healing, celebration, and cultural heritage, serving both as a visual record of the gathering and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Coast Salish peoples. The mural is now available for display at various events and community gatherings, continuing to foster a sense of unity and shared history.
Facilitator (Volunteer): Melanie Schambach
Project Director: Frederick Lane
Host: Lummi Nation
Funders: private donations
‘Tribal Journeys,' 2020. Acrylic on canvas.
10 ft. x 10 ft. Painting in tour.
Lummi Nation welcomed 10,000 people and over 100 canoes to their shores to celebrate, honour and preserve the cultural heritage of the Coast Salish peoples.
This mural was made in three days by 150 participants during the 6-day potlach aiming to uplift the spirit of unity and document the happening of this event.
"Healing Offerings:
Purple in spirit of missing
Yellow stars in spirit of murdered
Red stars Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women"
Kelly White (Salish Snuneymuxu Musqueam)
