Renowned street artist creates hawk portrait for Land Back Camp in Kitchener
Bruno Smoky says the camp's purpose, to reclaim space, resonates with him
A street artist with murals around the world spent some time creating a "special piece" for O:se Kenhionhata:tie Land Back Camp in Kitchener's Victoria Park on Wednesday.
Bruno Smoky said he connected with the community earlier in the year, while he and his partner, Shalak Attack, worked together on a mural elsewhere in the city.
They have a young daughter, and would take turns looking after her.
"Every morning, I would take her to the park," said Smoky. "Every day, I would see them."
The camp was set up in mid-June to reclaim land that once was a hub of activity for Nations including Chonnonton, Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples. It has also become a gathering space for Two-Spirited people and youth.
Smoky, who is from Brazil and has Indigenous roots there, said he felt compelled to share his artwork with Land Back Camp because he supports their cause.
"It's always good to bring attention to those values."
Watch his work in action: