‘In This Together’ Totem Plank
Artist: Jillian Currie and the Child and Youth Connections Families
Title: In This Together
Material: Cedar Plank and Acrylic Paint
2023
“In this Together,” is an original and inspired artwork created by local artists, children, youth, and their families. Directed by artist and knowledge keeper, Jillian Currie, this piece seeks to represent all Indigenous, Inuit, Metis, Cree, Coast Salish and Anishnaabe people that live on the Katzie First Nation and Kwantlen First Nation Territory.
The plank illustrates a full circle from top to bottom, from land to water to sky to spirit, from Metis to Cree to Inuit to Coast Salish and all Anishnaabe, completed lovingly by many nations, many backgrounds, and many hearts. In love and in the spirit of reconciliation, many who work and care for our Indigenous children, youth and families participated in the effort to create this piece that represents the excellent work that is being done here at Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Community Services. This plank represents our commitment to represent, support, and stand with all Indigenous Peoples whom we are thankful to be able to share this land with and walk together with.
Each element of the piece draws inspiration from Indigenous teachings and iconography. At its foundation, stone and earth imagery reference the Inuit Inukshuk—a symbol of guidance, support, and human connection. Métis floral motifs appear throughout the plank, honouring the rich and vibrant heritage of the Métis people. Ojibway-inspired birds, flowers, and butterflies represent the growth and transformation nurtured by the natural world.
A Coast Salish-inspired wolf and children symbolize loyalty, family, communication, learning, and protection. The children below are sheltered by the Elders above, reflecting the importance of intergenerational knowledge and care. Twin figures evoke harmony, balance, and unity.
Flowing through the centre of the work, the Orca represents the waters that sustain life and connect us all. As a guardian of the ocean, it symbolizes strength, ancestral wisdom, and our relationship with the natural world. Above, the Inuit-inspired sun and moon mark the passage of time and the balance of masculine and feminine energies working together to sustain life. They honour the Creator, the ancestors, and the enduring connection between all living things.
In This Together is both a celebration of Indigenous cultures and a reflection of our collective responsibility to foster understanding, respect, and reconciliation. We gratefully acknowledge all who contributed to the creation of this meaningful piece and honour the lands on which we live, learn, and grow together.
Jillian Currie
Ravens Vision
Artist/Owner/Director
Jillian Currie was born and raised in Northern British Columbia and is a proud Metis artist and Knowledge Keeper that now resides as a guest on the Katzie First Nation Territory in the Fraser Valley.
I majored in Aboriginal Studies at the Justice Institute of British Columbia. Immersing myself within these studies opened my eyes to the struggles that my people have endured throughout Colonization. It became my passion to make changes in my community for my people. I decided to become an advocate for those that felt they did not have a voice of their own. I have worked within the School District, local community, and Corrections. I support our Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth and offenders. Many of us believe that it is pertinent to educate and rehabilitate in order for our society to become one. This will not happen until we gain our sense of belonging once again. To regain our culture and traditions, something that we once lost.
Sharing our culture creates curiosity
That curiosity creates conversation
That conversation creates knowledge
That knowledge creates understanding
That understanding creates compassion
That compassion will create change
When we say, “all my relations,” it is meant to embrace all and rekindle community
~Jillian Currie~
Ravens Vision’s mission is to ignite a transformative journey towards cultural resurgence, community revitalization, and individual empowerment. We are committed to preserving and enhancing the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples of Turtle Island by providing accessible programs and services that foster healing, cultural connection, and passion.
We aspire to be a catalyst for positive change, fostering empowered tomorrows where every person, regardless of background, has access to the transformative power of cultural enrichment.