Foundry Wolf Light Sculpture
Artist: Rain Piere (sɬə́məxʷ)
Title: Wolf Light Sculpture
Material: Wood and Glass
2022
Created as a companion piece to the collaborative mural at The Foundry, this layered wood light sculpture extends the mural’s themes beyond the wall and into a three-dimensional form. Featuring a wolf set within a landscape of mountains, forests, clouds, and sky, the artwork reflects the connection between personal growth, community, and the natural world.
The wolf serves as a symbol of resilience, belonging, and strength, values that are at the heart of The Foundry’s commitment to supporting young people. The carefully layered construction creates depth and movement, inviting viewers to look beyond the surface and consider the many experiences, relationships, and journeys that shape who we are.
While the mural celebrates the collective voices and creativity of participants, this sculpture acts as a lasting reflection of that shared vision. The surrounding landscape represents the challenges, opportunities, and pathways that youth navigate, while the wolf stands as a reminder that no one travels those paths alone.
Together, the mural and sculpture tell a story of connection, hope, and community, honouring the strength found in both individuality and belonging.
Rain Piere (sɬə́məxʷ)
Rain Awakens
Katzie First Nation Artist
My name is Rain Pierre (sɬə́məx), and I am an indigenous artist from the Katzie First Nation. My journey as an artist began on October 16, 2016, when I had a life-changing awakening that led me to quit my dreams to become a civil engineer and pursue my true passion – art.
I dedicated my time to building a successful career in the construction industry. I worked extensive overtime, traveled across British Columbia, Canada, inspecting multimillion-dollar projects, and made a name for myself within the industry. Despite my success and good salary, I felt unfulfilled and realized that I was committing spiritual suicide.
One evening, I asked the Creator if this was the path I should be on. That’s when I discovered spray paint art through a Facebook video. I immediately went to the hardware store, bought some spray paint, and created my first painting on a canvas I had recently purchased. That day, my life changed forever.
Since 2016, I have focused on my career as a professional artist, using my work to breathe life into dreams and inspire others to follow their true passions. I believe that life is too short not to do what you love.
As an artist, I strive to use my work for good and to help people. I have created an interactive mural program with communities and school districts, collaborating on concepts and ideas, and working together to paint the pieces. I also teach students and adults how to safely spray paint in small groups.
Some of my notable accomplishments include:
- Creating the largest lenticular wall art in Canada
- Representing Canada at a global conference in Europe
- Maintaining sobriety for multiple years
- Collaborating on numerous murals with school districts across British Columbia and in Ottawa
- Planning an art show in the UK and speaking at Cambridge University
- Creating land acknowledgment plaques with schools and organizations to make spaces more welcoming
- Having my art displayed in every doctor’s office in British Columbia
As a dreamer, I am committed to using my art to inspire, uplift, and create positive change in the world.