"Let us be intentional about creating space to pause, reflect, and breathe. In these quiet moments, we can learn about ourselves - who we are, where we came from and where we are going. I think it's important to strive towards what we want out of life and to be gentle on ourselves as we move closer to who we want to become. This painting is about some of the things that emerge from my imagination and my dreams. These are guides I wish to honour that affirm that I am indeed on the right path." -Mike Alexander is an emerging Anishinaabe artist originally from Swan Lake First Nation in Treaty #1 territory, who lives on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. His spiritual name is Animikianikwad, or Thundercloud Man. A member of the Crane Clan, Mike's art serves to communicate stories and teachings of the Ojibway people
