Indigenous Studies Students Unveil Mural Celebrating Reconciliation and Community

On June 15, students in the Contemporary Indigenous Studies class unveiled a powerful new mural created in collaboration with local artist Shawn Johnny, marking the culmination of a project that began in March. The artwork, will be displayed on the QMS campus and represents a meaningful step toward making Indigenous art more visible within our community and fostering greater understanding, connection, and reconciliation.

The mural features symbolic representations of the Thunderbird and Killer Whale story painted across the crown of the QMS logo, representing communities coming together through relationship-building and shared learning. Behind the central design is a rising sun, painted with handprints from QMS students and staff, symbolizing a new day of reconciliation and the collective role we all play in this important work.

“We wanted to represent the land, Quw’utsun (the warm land), with the sun, and we wanted it to be dawning on a new day of reconciliation,” shared Tim Sailor, the teacher leading the Contemporary Indigenous Studies class. “The handprints also show our community getting involved and uplifting this work.”

For Shawn Johnny, the project carried deep personal meaning. Through his art, he sought to reflect on healing the divisions within Duncan, including the historic segregation experienced by the Quw’utsun people and the settler community. Seeing students from diverse backgrounds come together through the creative process was a powerful reminder of the possibility of connection.

“The kids don’t see division,” Shawn shared. “When they were painting, they all had big smiles on their faces, no matter where they come from. Seeing this helps me heal. Art is my medicine.”

The mural was formally shared with the community during the end-of-year assembly, where Quw’utsun Elders Qwiyahwultulw and Pamela—Shawn’s granduncle and aunt—joined the celebration. Through song and reflection, they reminded students that the history of discrimination against Indigenous peoples is within living memory, while also sharing hope for the future. Qwiyahwultulw spoke about the importance of projects like this in building relationships, friendships, and a stronger community together.

The unveiling concluded with a shared sense of gratitude. “I am so grateful to everyone that put their hands on this project,” said Shawn.

QMS extends heartfelt thanks to Shawn Johnny for generously sharing his time, knowledge, and artistic gifts, and to Cloverdale Paint for their generous donation of supplies that helped bring this meaningful project to life.