Otôtemiwewin

The canvas features niso mikiwāhp (Two Tipis), representing the Lloydminster and Vermilion campuses, filled with rich symbolism. Each element embodies a distinct area of study at Lakeland College. 

Continuing education and foundational learning are symbolized by otêhimina (strawberry) plants, often referred to as the "heart berry" by Indigenous peoples due to their shape. These interconnected plants, linked by a network of leaves, runners and roots, represent growth and the many pathways available to those pursuing continuing education. 

The first hill signifies agricultural sciences programs. The second hill symbolizes the environmental sciences programs. The third represents the energy programs, reflecting the energy present in all things around us. 

A solitary figure with a long braid, seen from behind, symbolizes the health and wellness programs. Hair, regarded as an extension of the spirit, reflects how we care for ourselves and others. The fire depicted in the artwork represents the fire and emergency services programs.

The image of a Câpân (great grandparent) holding hands with a Câpân (great grandchild)—a term meaning "the one who holds my hand" and used interchangeably between the two—represents human services. Their hand holding gesture also symbolizes inclusive education, illustrating how we lift each other up. 

A person finger-painting the mikiwāhp honors the interior design technology program. Trades and Technology is represented by a bone scraping tool near the fire, symbolizing the tools and machines essential to the trades. 

The business programs are symbolized by an eagle feather, a representation of knowledge. It reflects the opportunities available to students through various degree pathways offered in partnership with other institutions. An arrow, placed near the tools and fire, symbolizes the university transfer program, highlighting the many directions students can take. 

The northern lights shining above house the animals of the Seven Grandfather Teachings:

• The beaver for wisdom
• The eagle for love
• The buffalo for respect
• The bear for courage
• Bigfoot for honesty
• The wolf for humility
• The turtle for truth

The piece is further enriched with the presence of sacred medicines, including sage, sweetgrass, cedar and tobacco, grounding the artwork in traditional teachings and practices. 

When all these elements come together, we have Otôtemiwewin (Friendship) and we walk side-by-side in the Lakeland way. 

Cree artist from Lloydminster Alta.
Lakeland College, Energy Student

My name is Nevin Jarvis, and I am a Cree artist from Lloydminster, Alta. I paint dreamy landscapes full of colour and wildlife from my home province of Alberta. I hope that my work helps people remember all those who have lived on this land before us and makes them look at the land in a different light. These paintings help me connect with my grandpa. The paintings are inspired by the stories he has told me, as well as quality time spent in nature.

I love travelling, and spending time with my family and dogs. My sisters and I go on hiking trips to the Alberta Rockies as much as we can, and every trip is even more incredible than the last. I have also found much wisdom in books by Robin Wall Kimmerer and Asha Frost.

Connecting to my ancestral roots is something that is important to me, and I am always happy to learn more. Some things I do to connect to my artistic spirit is to spend time in nature, respect all life on Earth, and - as my grandfather taught me, dance with the northern lights when you see them.

Onion Lake Cree Nation

My community elected me as a band councilor and I’ve held portfolios in education, justice, health, and housing. During this time, I was co-founder of the Cree Language and Cultural programing for the school curriculum and a board member for the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce and the Onion Lake Enterprise. I facilitated the development of an SGI location on-reserve. I also worked with the Onion Lake Health and provincial health minsters in Saskatchewan and Ottawa advocating for improved health services and restorative justice practices for the community. During my time as an elected official I was appointment Caveat by the Chief to work with Saskatchewan, for the Onion Lake Group home we have today.

Prior to Band councilor, I worked as an Edmonton group home parent. I decided to open my home for these children and youth to foster care and transferred my foster sons to my home until they moved out in 1994. They continue to come home during our Powwow days and Christmas holidays. I was the first parent councilor home open from the province of Alberta, North West Region for six years.

I was elected as president for local and region foster care parent association. After my sons moved to their desired places for continued education, I worked as a family service worker.

Today I enjoy my current work with Edmonton Institute For Women in Correction Services.

I am an elder for Lakeland College for foundational learners and their instructors, where I facilitate circles.

Today I enjoy and love spending time with my family, friends and relatives with ceremonies, and on special events.