A new mural unveiled at the Chatham-Kent Community Health Centre (CKCHA) on Walpole Island is expected to promote inclusivity and connection to the First Nations territory.
Unveiled last week, the mural entitled “A Part of Us” adorns a wall in the CKCHA waiting area of the Walpole Island site of CKCHA.
A call was put out in October 2023 for Indigenous artists from Walpole Island First Nation to design and paint the mural and Ariel Williams was chosen as the successful candidate.
Williams, who graduated from the Fine Art program at Fanshawe College in London, proposed an idea to CKCHC that was based on indigenous people’s connection to the land.
“The land is so meaningful and sacred to us that it isn’t just a place where we physically are, but rather a part of ourselves, it’s in our identity. Within my practice, I wanted to explore how this connection can be used as a good medicine and bring strength to Indigenous people,” said Williams in a news release.
She said it’s the largest painting she’s ever completed in her career as an artist.
“I’m grateful to bring this idea to life and share it with my local community. As people walk into this space and see the mural, I hope it brings them joy and comfort. Just as this beautiful island we call home brings to all of us,” said Williams.
CKCHC received $2,500 in funding for the mural through the Creative County Grant Program.
