HUMBOLDT — A date to unveil a new mural on the north side of city hall, developed in collaboration with students from Humboldt’s four schools, has been set.
The mural, which focuses on reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, will be unveiled at 1:30 p.m. on National Indigenous Peoples Day, Tuesday, June 21.
"Reconciliation refers to the act of restoring a once harmonious relationship. Joint leadership, trust-building, accountability, and transparency are some of the steps towards reconciliation," said Michael Behiel, Humboldt's mayor, in a media release. "It is a privilege and an honour to have this beautiful piece on City Hall that symbolizes our commitment to becoming one people united with Mother Earth."
The Humboldt Public Art committee mural was created by Kevin L. Pee-ace, who was born in Kelvington and is a member of the Yellow Quill First Nation and Peter Chapman First Nation.
In January, supported by an artists in communities development grant from SK Arts, Pee-ace met with 184 youth from all four schools in Humboldt over Zoom. He led a conversation about reconciliation and invited the youth to think about it in a positive way, in a way to improve the community. The students then drew, painted or wrote down ideas about how to convey reconciliation.
"This vibrant, colourful piece on city hall represents the community’s commitment to Reconciliation," said Jennifer Fitzpatrick, Humboldt's cultural services director. "Art is a powerful way to share messages that inspire dialogue and the building of new relationships to move forward."
Seating to the event is limited, so those attending are asked to bring their own lawn chairs.
