Qalipu artist the latest to unveil artwork at Confederation Building

Artwork by Qalipu First Nation artist Marcus Gosse is the latest painting to hang on the walls of Confederation Building, part of a series of pieces from Indigenous artists to decorate Newfoundland and Labrador's legislative home.

Gosse revealed his work, a painting titled Mawo'ltimk — Unity — on Thursday. The artwork depicts eight whales swimming around the Mi'kmaq star.

He told the crowd gathered at Confederation Building that he hoped to capture the themes seen in his others works: Togetherness, joy, love and support.

"This one in particular here is about strength, togetherness, support and unity," Gosse said.

"[The star is] a symbol of pride amongst Mi'kmaq people. It not only shows unity amongst all the cultures, but it also shows the eight districts of the Mi'kmaw territory. Which is cool, because the eighth one is actually Newfoundland."

Gosse said whales also symbolize peace, compassion and family, and are important as good communicators in the environment.

"It goes to show you that, you know, our nations need to be together, communicating, learning about each other together," he told CBC Radio after the announcement.

Gosse's work is the fourth of five paintings procured by the province from Indigenous artists selected to decorate the east block of Confederation Building, along with the creation of a statue to honour the Beothuk. Paintings from artists representing the Nunatsiavut government, Innu Nation and Miawpukek First Nation have already been unveiled.

Qalipu First Nation Chief Jenny Brake said showcasing the art is important representation of Indigenous peoples.

"Art gives us an opportunity to tell a story. A story that is ours to tell as Indigenous people of this place and this unceded land where we live," Brake, an artist herself, said.

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