The courtyard behind The Core Building of Island Community Services on McPhillips Avenue has been transformed into a representation of the Strawberry Moon by artist Charlene Johnny.
With the aid of a generous grant from the Salt Spring Island Foundation Indigenous Priorities Fund, Island Community Services was able to engage the artist to design and complete the inspiring piece. Charlene is already known locally as the artist behind the Salt Spring Public Library mural,
“All are invited to our reveal party on Tuesday, June 20th between 4:00 and 6:00 PM to enjoy the full effect of this magnificent piece of artwork now in our village core,” said Kyla Duncan, Clinical Director at Island Community Services. “We are delighted to be able to enjoy this art during our daily programming as well as demonstrate our commitment to truth and reconciliation in this community display.”
The Core building is home to Youth Counselling Services, Youth Drop-In, Child and Youth Special Needs Programming, Adult Day Programming for Developmentally Disabled along with other ad hoc and regular community programs including the Tuesday Clinic for Options for Sexual Health.
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| Artist Charlene Johnny applies finishing touches to the Strawberry Moon mural at The Core |
Stsi’yu Luts’as (Wild Strawberry Full Moon) statement from the artist:
“At the centre of the court, the artwork features Stsi’yu Luts’as, the wild strawberry full moon, which comes to us every June. The patterns surrounding the moon represent Salish weaving patterns.
I am pleased to have done this work during National Indigenous History month, a time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
Traditionally, Coast Salish blankets are a form of currency with a high value attached to them. They were given as payment to witnesses at namings, marriages, funerals, and other important ceremonies. I have reimagined the idea of our traditional blankets in Mural form, so this artwork represents a blanket I have gifted to all the people who utilize the space behind The Core.
This artwork acknowledges our intercultural relationships and adds colour and brightness to the space.
I am honoured and am grateful to the Salt Spring Island community who helped me to complete this project. “
