“Nimaadaadiziwin” is a piece that is based on a dream I had prior to my grandson being born. In the dream I saw 3 sea turtles swimming with the current into a new direction to a new home. The water was so blue and clear, I could see sea shells and the sand and pebbles on the floor. It was such a beautiful dream I woke up and sketched it out. I knew then I wanted to do something with it, however I was not yet experienced enough to paint or bead it.

 

It stayed in my mind for over 6 years, gaining significance and understanding when we decided to leave the place we called home for our entire lives. We ventured to a new area and surroundings (Barabaoo). Navigating us on this journey is my son, and the center my grandson, as everything we do and work on is for him. I had them choose the colors for their turtles, thus showing the differences in each of us. I originally attempted the background image for this in various ways, including a digital image and 3 acrylic paintings before attempting and feeling the ink was the perfect choice and captured the dream vividly as I saw it.

 

This project reminds me to not only trust the process and have patience, but also that it is ok to not be in control and allow my kid to take the lead as we work towards changing things for the better for our future generations. As Anishinaabe we are taught to always make big decisions based on how it may affect 7 generations forward. The journey we have found ourselves on, is one of breaking generational cycles, healing past traumas and grief, and finding healthier ways to move forward and grow.