New Work: The Saskatchewan Commemorative Mural

Artist's Statement

My earliest memories were forged under the infinite expanse and freedom of an open prairie sky. This same freedom - one of open-ness and possibilities - is infused in many who grow up with the sound of a silent, endless prairie as their constant companion. In the line of musician Clem Yeo-West, which forms the thematic background of this mural, Saskatchewan is: "here, beneath the big sky, where miracles and dreams grow new life"

His words ring infinitely true, especially to someone such as myself, raised (as Bob Bossin, observed of John G. Diefenbaker) "in the prairie grain," and witness to more than a few of this harsh and beautiful land's many wonders: from the miracle of minus-forty winter survival and the poignant smell of the thawing spring earth, to the wondrous warm nights of summer stargazing from the rolled-down windows of waiting, midnight grain trucks - the silent air seasoned with the fragrance of wheat straw as the distant combine makes its whirring, winking approach.

Beyond its natural and climatic wonders, this province's history has left a truly inspirational legacy. From its stewardship over the millennia by countless generations of First Nations, to the amazing stories of triumph and of tragedy from just the past 100 years, this province inspires me. From the profound wisdom and Herculean hearts of those from our recent past, from Big Bear to Dief to Douglas; to the endurance, perseverance and love for this land displayed in equal measure by both First Nations peoples and the immigrants who came here from many lands, I am inspired; and I am inspired by the unsung women who provided over generations the nurturing sustenance and plain hard work that allowed us not just to survive, but to progress.

I am inspired by the immense treasure of artistic talent and vision which this province has itself inspired, from W.O. to Joni, from Sapp to Sainte-Marie to Streetheart; and I am profoundly inspired by the great numbers of veterans in this province from all ethnic backgrounds who put their lives on the line this past century for the sake of us all.

From the sage-scented air of prairie pastures through the crackling winter skating rinks of small towns and the summer blare of city festivals, Saskatchewan's soul - its freedom - lives and breathes in all who call this place home. To capture some sense of the spirit of this place - of that freedom and immensity - through a work of visual art is a great challenge. In fact, the undertaking and completion of the Saskatchewan Commemorative Mural is easily the most challenging and exciting art project I have undertaken.

It is a project which has been demanding in every aspect, from research through design and in just straight physical endurance! It has been a project in which I have invested a great deal of my own feelings for this province, and yet one which I hope will serve as a touchstone for all who have called it their home. Most of all; it is a project for which this province - this great land of open skies..and hearts - has prepared me: I am inspired!