“Blue Jay,” or the “Diindiisi” in the Anishinaabe language, is the fifth instalment of the YR Experience Trail Marker Project.
Unveiled March 4 at Vandorf Community Park near the Whitchurch-Stouffville Museum & Community Centre, the work was illustrated by Indigenous artist Donald Chrétien of Nipissing First Nation.
“Focused on the legend of the seed spreaders and the pollinators, the trail markers are life-size, interactive designs that invite you to become part of the work,” Chrétien said.
Each piece of art, shaped like a large magnifying glass, is meant to draw people into becoming part of the art itself, a media release explained.
Matthew Bergman, President and Co-Founder of Indigenous Action Committee, spoke about the Trail Marker and its significance.
Ashley Bergman, also Co-Founder, performed a smudge ceremony and joined her brother Matthew in singing traditional songs at the unveiling.
“Diindiisi…refers to the sound of their songs. They are protective of family and territory,” Charles explained. “Diindiisi lifts up happy songs of the approaching spring.”
The location of each trail marker was selected based on its proximity to local pollinator gardens.
Four additional trail markers are planned as part of the project.
