Connect What is your favorite type of art to create?

Traditional, Aboriginal artwork, free-hand on canvas with acrylic paint. I use to do abstract but once I turned 16 thats when I started seeing visions come through, from my culture (mi'kmaq) whenever I would paint. So now it flows out of me and I wouldn't haven't it any other way. Reconnecting with your culture & gaining strength/confidence within.

Where do you find inspiration?

I started painting at the age of 10 years old only to distract myself from the sexual encounters I was enduring from my grandparents who were residential schools survivors, they taught us broken love & silently abuse us. I was a troubled child when I was trying to come out but I was just punished - spending long hours in my room made me became creative. The reaction from people delighted me at such a young age, now I've been painting professionally for 16 years. Mentoring for 6 years

What would you do with $25,000?

I already have land cleared for my studio on my reservation for my community, (we'koqma'q first nation, NS) its underway. Winning this contest would not be just a statement but a successful outlook on my hardwork earnings & goal for this studio, it'll give others confidence as they can sell their artwork there or create!. Ive been saving up for the studio since 2023. Building a safe space for individuals who need a therapeutic time can come to the studio and gain. Wela'lin - Thank you