07-05-2025
Treaty 4 Territory the focus of new mural in rural Sask.
A mural celebrating Treaty 4 Territory has been unveiled at 33 Central School in Fillmore, Sask.
The mural was a collaborative project between the school and Indigenous elders and an artist, with the purpose of better understanding Indigenous history and culture.
'I wanted a lasting legacy on the wall that showed everyone is welcome,' said Kylee Carver, the principal of 33 Central School.
'We really do try to honour our commitments to truth and reconciliation,' she added.
In December of 2024, 33 Central School was granted over $10,000 from Sask. Arts for the project.
Painting began in January with nearly every student taking part.
Brianna LaPlante was the artist coordinating the mural. She said the entire process was a teaching moment, as they created something which can be used as a learning tool in the future.
'I wanted to introduce them to more of a holistic way of learning, by doing, talking and laughing and relationship building,' she said.
'I want the art in the future to be used as a tool. Not only for storytelling, but the story is incomplete with the Indigenous perspective.'
Carver said the school has brought their students out to Indigenous gatherings in the past, but it is costly taking everyone along.
Through the mural project, the cultural lessons and knowledge were brought right to the school over a length of time.
'I feel like we should have more art like this, and appreciate what treaty people have given us,' said Faith Larson, a Grade 8 student from 33 Central School.
There are plans to name the mural and hang it inside of the school.
It will be used to teach the history of Treaty 4 Territory through the format of oral tradition.
