Kellie Winnipeg, Manitoba

Fair address: Red River Heritage Fair

Project: Aboriginal Art - A Journey through Time

Aboriginal art has made an important contribution to Canada's history and heritage. Although the types and forms of art have changed over time, both past and present arts forms reflect deep spiritual connection and inner truth.

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

Contact with the European settlers dramatically influenced the Aboriginal culture and the art forms.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

Through my research, I discovered that art is an important tool in addressing social issues within the Aboriginal community. Today, many emerging artists are using their personal experiences of discrimination and alienation to create their works for art.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

Although my life as a First Nations young woman is dramatically different from my ancestors, the deep connection to our heritage remains the same.