Turtle Legend Painting Workshop

Description

Join artist James Groening for an fun, inspiring & immersive workshop where you’ll learn the story of Turtle Island & paint your own masterpiece. Presented by West Vancouver Community Arts Council.

Turtle Island is the creation story for the lands now known as North & Central America, told by numerous Indigenous First Nations. James will share the story of how Turtle Island came into being & how sharing stories & teachings have inspired his artistic & healing journey.

James will have canvas prepared with a turtle designed in the Woodland Art style which you’ll paint & bring to life using the signature bright & bold colours of the style. Woodland Art is a distinct style of Indigenous art that blends traditional legends & myths with contemporary mediums using expressive line work & bright colours. It explores the relationships between people, animals & plants & is rich with spiritual imagery & symbolism.

Through knowledge sharing & creation, discover the power of story & connection, while painting your own turtle.

All supplies are included. All ages & experience levels welcome.

Artist/Instructor Bio

James Groening, aka Blue Sky, is a Burnaby-based Cree artist from the Kahkewistahaw First Nation. Adopted by his white grandparents during the Sixties Scoop, Groening was raised disconnected from his Kahkewistahaw roots. After meeting his biological mother & learning of his heritage, James was inspired to pursue a journey of reclaiming his Indigeneity. 

Groening paints in the Woodland Art style with expressive designs & vibrant colours, depicting stories & legends from his rich cultural heritage. Led by artistic intuition & meaningful legends, Groening’s artwork documents his journey of healing & growth, as he attempts to revitalize his cultural identity through art making & knowledge sharing.

Registration Details

Register at https://westvanartscouncil.ca/event-5254477