Jordan Williams from Centre Dufferin High School introduces the audience to the ideas of respect behind this work of art from The Mural Project which follows the story of “Nenaboozhoo and the Fish.” This stunning piece is one of three murals CDDHS students spent many hours painting last week, working under the direction of internationally acclaimed visual artist Christi Belcourt. Upper Grand District School Board Native Studies lead Colinda Clyne says Christi Belcourt is “one of the best known living indigenous artists in the country; her work is in the National Gallery, on Parliament Hill, and at the Art Gallery of Ontario; she is the creator of the Walking with Our Sisters travelling art show that honours missing and murdered indigenous women; she has designed PanAm medals, and has had her artwork reproduced onto clothing by Italian fashion designer Valentino.” The CDDHS students had the honour of working throughout the week with Belcourt – painting the murals to express the messages of humanity and stewardship they had learned from First Nation's stories as told by Isaac Murdoch.

“Nenaboozhoo in the Lodge” was introduced by CDDHS student Rhianna Belford who retold the story of greed and division – putting the art in context with the lesson of the story. The event was attended by Bill Morrison Senator for the Metis Nation of Ontario. Mr. Morrison, whose major portfolio is education, said he was “honoured to meet the young adults who are now the stewards of the land,” and he expressed his gratitude for the efforts of area families in preserving the land from the threat of the mega quarry. The bold and beautiful canvasses throughout the room were testament to the intensity of the experience and the learning that had taken place - especially concerning environmental stewardship. “We are the change,” said Rhianna Belford, “We are young, but we are mighty.” Ojibway knowledge carrier Isaac Murdock reinforced the message saying, “We must give back to the earth and restore balance for future generations.” The Mural Project will take this message on tour to other students and then return to be displayed at CDDHS.