Miawpukek powwow captured in latest Indigenous artwork hanging in N.L. legislature

Miawpukek First Nation artist Brittany Wiseman says the powwow holds a special place in her heart, and it will now hang on the walls of Confederation Building thanks to her.

Wiseman's painting, Powwow Serenity, is the second of five paintings procured by the province from Indigenous artists selected to decorate the east block of Confederation Building. 

Wiseman told reporters she was asked to paint what Conne River means to her, and created a scene from a powwow.

"The powwow is about family and connection. The movement, the flow. Just the vibe," she said.

"It's what Conne River means to me. It's always family and connection, and you know, like seeing people for the first time in a long time."

Art from Nunatisavut artist Bronson Jacque was unveiled on Tuesday, and other pieces from artists representing Innu Nation, the NunatuKavut Community Council, Qalipu First Nation and a statue to represent the Beothuk will be unveiled later.

Bradley Benoit, chief of Miawpukek First Nation, said it's great to see Indigenous culture represented in the Confederation Building.

"It's often easy to lose sight of how our diversity makes us stronger as a province," he said.

WATCH | Wiseman's art will hang inside Confederation Building:

Miawpukek artist says seeing painting hang in Confederation Building is special

8 hours ago

Duration 1:42

Brittany Wiseman of Miawpukek First Nation is one of six Indigenous artists who will have her work displayed inside Confederation Building. She was asked to paint what her community means to her, and illustrated the Miawpukek powwow.

"This is a big step in the journey toward healing, reconciliation and a more inclusive society."

Premier Andrew Furey said art pieces like Wiseman's are an important addition to the home of Newfoundland and Labrador's legislature. He believes the Confederation Building should represent the entire province.

"While we can't change anything from the past, we can ensure that going forward there are the appropriate symbols that reflect who we are and the multiple different cultures that exist across Newfoundland and Labrador," he said.

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