Still Canadian at Heart
Wednesday, October 11th, 2006Since moving to Austin, Texas from Canada six years ago, I’ve felt like I’ve been straddling the U.S./ Canada border. I’ve enjoyed being dunked into the American melting pot, but much of my heart still clings to a Canadian identity.
A couple of days ago, while unpacking from our move into our new Austin house, I uncovered a wonderful symbol of my Canadian roots.
When facilitating a workshop in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, Canada in 1995, I bought an Artist’s Proof of “Talking to the Animals” by Simon Tookoome from the Matchbox Gallery. He is an important Inuit artist of the Far North.
Through much of the time following my purchase of the proof, my treasured art remained boxed up as I moved frequently (often every few months). Sometimes, I must regrettably confess, it was stored in less than ideal conditions.
Given this history, when I went to unwrap it the other day, I was hoping, hoping, hoping that the artwork would still be in great shape. To my relief and joy, it was! It looked as fabulous as the day I first saw it in the gallery!
Now I will hang it above my desk with a spirit of gratitude and honor (or rather, honour — Canadian spelling).
I love this artwork, the North, and the creative process that an Artist’s Proof signifies. This Tookoome piece embodies all of these things, and as I gaze at it, I feel very moved (no pun intended).
So, on the wall of our Texas home you’ll find Inuit art. It might appear out of place to some, but to me, it’s just right. The art is a reminder of my “home and native land,” and for that, I am thankful.