what does water Represent?2023

As I continue to explore my identity I have found that water connects both of my heritages as they are both are coastal.

And currently the sacred headwaters of the mapuche in Chile are being threatened just like our sacred waters are here in so-called Canada...

This realization that water is becoming more precious than I imagined began the process of my exploration. How can I depict water in its sacredness and show a perspective of an indigenous lens that will help bring awareness to the on going struggles that indigenous people experience today. How can I share the knowledge that water has precious value?

In my interpretation I created a bentwood box design which are obects used to carry sacred items and at the top of this design mapuche woven patterns are painted symbolizing the union of communities. At the foundation of this piece woven copper wire is incorporated to amplify the message that water is sacred.