Althea

Art Gallery

The piece portrays a moment rooted in reality: wildfires that frequently sweep across the American-Canadian border, where herds of bison roam vast parklands. During one particularly intense fire, park rangers were forced to round up the herds for safety. Yet, one bison refused to be herded. It stood alone in the blaze, guided by instinct rather than fear, moving with an ancient understanding of survival. This image of defiance and wisdom struck me as profoundly beautiful and deeply symbolic.

This work immediately captivated my attention during the exhibit, which explored bison, indigenous land, and the intimate relationship between nature and resilience that these artists so powerfully represent.

We are often taught to protect nature as though it was fragile, as if our stewardship alone ensures its continuity. However, this artwork reminds me that nature is far from helpless—it is adaptive, intelligent, and enduring. The bison’s refusal to be controlled reflects the untamed spirit of the land itself, one that resists confinement and continues to thrive despite human interference. It also echoes Indigenous perspectives that view humans not as masters of the natural world but as participants within it—equal parts of a greater, self-sustaining system.

During the exhibition, my second favourite piece was the hide wrapped in wood, which had been sent from the artist’s original Indigenous homeland. I found it incredibly meaningful—not only because of its material and form, but also because the artist was able to involve their children in the experience. That intergenerational connection added a layer of authenticity and continuity to the work, emphasizing how cultural traditions live on through family.

The seven-day process behind the hide—hunting, cooking, skinning, and curating—was fascinating to me. It reflected patience, respect, and a deep connection to nature. Though my Croatian and Greek roots differ, I value the ritual and gratitude within such traditions, having learned through my own experiences hunting and giving thanks to the animal. I also admired the artist’s use of tarps, a recyclable and reusable material symbolizing resilience and sustainability. This thoughtful detail beautifully connected cultural practice with environmental awareness.

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