RMWB Council Chambers are getting a new look thanks to a local artist

Frederick R. McDonald from the Fort McKay First Nation was the lead artist for the Indigenous Reconciliation Artwork project.

Dating back to a council motion in 2019, the project represents the Municipality’s ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation and acknowledges Indigenous Peoples as the original stewards of the land.

“I hope this serves as a constant reminder that through art, we can unite in reconciliation and foster understanding,” said Mayor Sandy Bowman.

“We can—and we will— continue to recognize Indigenous Peoples lived experiences and their everlasting contributions to this region. My deepest appreciation goes to everyone that played a role in making this a reality.”

Artist Fred McDonald from the Fort McKay First Nation project in RMWB Council Chambers // photo supplied by the RMWB

McDonald was joined by Elders and Knowledge Keepers, many of whom are residential and day school survivors, who shared their difficult truths to develop the design concept.

The artwork represents their shared history, traditions, love for nature and includes a nod to the contemporary influence of a hopeful future generation.

A Talking Stick was presented alongside the Indigenous Reconciliation Artwork in a special ceremony held on April 25 in Council Chambers.

The Talking Stick was created by Elder Shirley Arthurs and honours the sharing circle process used to achieve consensus on artist selection and design concepts.