Submitted by Holiday Alley
Teachers and students from the Lord Selkirk School Division truly embrace Holiday Alley’s mission to celebrate art, light, sound, culture, and creativity. This November, they’re contributing a vibrant new art installation that’s sure to light up the festival in more ways than one.
Over 20 miniature glowing drums will hang in downtown Selkirk thanks to the creative genius of teachers Melissa Muir and Jacqueline Bercier. It’s part of their commitment to make the Truth and Reconciliation curriculum in the schools come alive in a positive way.
“The images on the drums reflect the kind of relationships the students believe we should have between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. We didn’t want to dwell on the negative relationship but the good relationship going forward. So, the students have used many positive images that centre on light and positivity like sunrises, turtles and landscapes,” says Melissa Muir who works in the Indigenous Student Centre for Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive Secondary School.
The drums are made from eight to twelve-inch embroidery hoops with orange fabric stretched over the bands. The Grade 9-12 students drafted their images in advance and then drew on the fabric. Two hoops were then placed back-to-back, and a small LED diode light was dropped between the two hoops which will illuminate the images.
“They look so pretty and have hopeful and positive meanings,” Muir said. “This type of work is how they can share what they are discussing in other classes as well.”
“Art is a great brain break for students who need a creative outlet,” she added.
There will be 20 bright drums at Holiday Alley, which starts Friday, Nov. 21.
Holiday Alley welcomes anyone who has positive art installations to contact them immediately before the program is set for November 19-22. To contribute cash, time, or talent, contact Victoria at holidayalleymb@gmail.com.
