The Three Sisters – A tribute to the First Nations Communities in Ontario, is located just east of Dundas and Sheridan on the north side and depicts the teachings of The Three Sisters story.
This is the name given to three agricultural crops: maize, climbing beans, and squash, which were grown together, using an agricultural technique called companion planting. The Haudenosaunee (Iroquois), among other indigenous people, showed settlers how to plant them in order to subsist on the land.
Here the sisters stand surrounded by the leaves and blooms of their respective plants against a vibrant blue background. A medicine wheel is featured in the centre of the composition providing visual interest and a burst of warm colour. The mural was created in collaboration with educators from First Nations communities. This exchange was a valuable experience for the artists.
Artwork Information
- Title: Three Sisters – Tribute to the First Nations Communities in Ontario
- Creation Date: June 2017
- Address: 1532 Dundas Street West
- Artists: Tikay & A_N_E_R
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Paula Tikay is a Chilean artist of Mapuche descent based in Valparaiso, Chile. From an early age she was artistically influenced by her mother, an artist and midwife. Her time spent in the bohemian Barrio Yungay in Santiago, Chile and her growing involvement in activism led her to see the city streets as sites of expression. Her work often depicts large-scale portraits of indigenous women and girls, surrounded by elements of the natural world. She frequently collaborates on murals with the artist Aner, with whom she has created work across Latin America.
This artwork is proudly hosted by Archive Tattoo Studio, 1528 Dundas St West.
Hosts ensure a long life to the artworks by acting as their custodians. If you would like to know more about the Dundas West Open Air Museum hosts program then please contact us at hosts@dundaswest.museum.