# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wO_3m7garr0&t=78s

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Read 198 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. This debut novel by Byron Graves tells the story of a young athlete determined to play lik...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Indigenous Arts & Stories - I am 10 years old

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
BAMA | Award-winning Indigenous Short Film by Jahvis Loveday

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
> Blog > Product Spotlight > "Not Forgotten" - To Honour & Bring Awareness

CAP & Winn Devon Art Group Inc. joins Manitoba-born artist Maxine Noel in her support of Sisters In Spirit, an initiative, led by First Nations women, that addresses the alarming rate of violence against Aboriginal women and girls in Canada.

Maxine, who is a member of the Sioux Nation, will donate all royalties earned from sales of her work "Not Forgotten" to this initiative. She specifically created this painting, "Not Forgotten", to remember and honour the spirits and presence of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls.

Her objective in doing this is to raise awareness of and money for the cause, which fights to end violence against Aboriginal women and girls throughout Canada.

CAP & Winn Devon Art Group Inc has decided to row in behind one of Canada's most loved First Nation artists. We will match her royalties earned from sales of this image and donate the sum to the initiative.

Sisters In Spirit is run by the Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC). Established in 2005, the initiative's primary goal is to raise awareness of violence against Aboriginal women and girls in Canada, and research the factors that contribute to these incidents. It is one of 3 NWAC initiatives focusing on violence prevention and safety - the others being 'Project PEACE' and 'You Are Not Alone'.

"Not Forgotten" will be available to buy as Art Cards (6 x 9 in), as well as a Limited Edition (13 x 16.5 in), numbering just 975. In each case, the story that inspired Maxine in creating the work is printed on the back.

Maxine will be attending the CGTA show in Toronto in 2016. She will be at our booth on Monday, Feb 1 (10am-2pm), and Tuesday, February 2 (11am-3pm), when you will have the opportunity to meet with and speak to Maxine, and have your cards signed by her.
The Story Behind "Not Forgotten"
"Our mothers and daughters, our sisters and aunties and grandmothers. Our women are our heart and our spirit, always honoured, never forgotten.

"I am Dakota Sioux, a woman and mother, and an artist. These are inseparable facets of who I am and how I live in the world. That world, the world we all live and move in, is a place of great and terrible beauty, of wonder, and of tragedy. In this painting, I speak to that wonder and beauty and tragedy.

"To capture both the wonders and the tragedy, I wanted to include motifs which connect with all the places our peoples live. Turning first to the West Coast peoples, I am honoured to have been allowed to include the moon image of my friend, artist and visionary Roy Henry Vickers, an image I first encountered in his illustrations for Dave Bouchard's The Elders Are Watching.

"From the North, I incorporated the image of Sedna, the source of all the creatures of the sea. I have always been drawn to the shell and bead work of the Maliseet and other East Coast peoples and, in this painting, have echoed the fluidity and grace of their compelling designs.

"The two feathers acknowledge the Métis and the peoples of the grasslands and woodlands, of the plains and the forests.

"Finally, the floating figures throughout the painting are the spirits and the presence of the missing and murdered women.

"Missing but never lost. Always present, always remembered." ~ Maxine Noel/Ioyan Mani
Company Profile:
Canadian Art Prints and Winn Devon Art Group Inc. is a publisher of open edition posters, limited edition prints, framed art gifts and art cards. Our collection showcases an eclectic mix of incomparable imagery by more than 200 international artists.

Comprising two distinct brands - Winn Devon and Canadian Art Prints (CAP) - we are one of the largest art-publishing houses in the world. Committed to offering exceptional imagery of outstanding quality and design, we have a dedicated international sales force. Our images are sold through galleries, framers, museums, gift boutiques and art retailers throughout the world.

Find out more about the Maxine Noel
Find out more about the NWAC and Sisters In Spirit
Find out more about the CGTA show

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Designed and Developed by Luke Lau (Web Architect, Designer, and Developer) - http://lukelau.com/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Canadian Art Prints and Winn Devon Art Group Inc.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Canadian Art Prints and Winn Devon Art Group Inc. is a publisher of open edition posters, limited edition prints, framed art gifts and art cards. From home to office, traditional to cutting edge, our unique collection offers something for every taste and application.

# data[].attributes.body
Noel, Maxine. Not Forgotten. 2017, Museum of Canadian History, Ottawa.

# data[].attributes.body
Smith, Astokomii, "I am 10 years old." Indigenous Arts & Stories, 2018, www.our-story.ca/winners/writing/6443:i-am-10-years-old.

# data[].attributes.body
BAMA. Directed by Jahvis Loveday, performance by Elijah Loveday, Jahvis Loveday, 2021.

# data[].attributes.body
Kutzen, Paul Punahele. "Do Your Homework," From Beneath Maunakea, Youtube, 15-Juy-2020, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wO_3m7garr0&list=OLAK5uy_lLHmMtnPgDzFFMSsspYax8phMhOMGRXTM&index=3

# data[].attributes.body
I chose "I am 10 years old" By Astokomii Smith of the Siksika Nation to include in my mixtape because it addresses postcolonial concerns by giving individuals who have been historically silenced a voice.

For example, many people were forced to assimilate and give up on their Indigenous identity as a result of colonization, which further formed boundaries between them and their traditional practices. In the context of cultural dominance and identity loss, Smith writes, "I spoke English and not one word of our mother's tongue / It felt wrong, / But I did as I was told" (Smith 14-16).

These words alone illustrate the detrimental effects of colonization and its ever-lasting impacts. Innocent children were forced to speak the language of the colonizers, who didn't let the children utter a single word using their mother tongue. This highlights the traditional colonial practice of erasing Indigenous identities and forcefully making them adopt Catholic-based identities. Surviving through this agonizing victimization only shows the resilience of those brave Indigenous souls, who sacrificed themselves for the betterment of their community. They managed to preserve their cultural heritage despite these bumps along their journey, and came out on top with the victory of life, their Indigeneity.

This poem resonates deeply with me because it challenges me to reflect on the ongoing impacts of colonization and acknowledge Indigenous communities' perseverance in reclaiming and preserving their cultural identities. Others should try to connect with this poem because it offers an in-depth experience of what life is like when suppressed by the long-term effects of colonization and discrimination. It allows for empathy and understanding to be formed, which further helps the reader to connect to the emotions that the author is trying to portray. If we can't connect to the poem via our emotions, then has the author really done a good job writing a proper poem?

Therefore, "I am 10 years old" by Astokomii Smith not only addresses postcolonial concerns, but also serves as a vivid reminder that we should all be grateful for the freedom we are presented with today. By including this poem in my mixtape, I am trying to emphasize the importance of giving voice to those who have been historically silenced. I urge everyone to acknowledge the enduring impacts of colonization and to support the preservation of Indigenous culture and traditions. Many young Indigenous children like Natalia deserve to grow up to be older than just 10, so we must use her life as motivation to give the gift of life that she couldn't have to other children just like her.

# data[].attributes.body
Welcome to my Padlet! This Padlet consists of many works that have been created and honed by Indigenous artists and creators. Paying homage to their efforts, I've decided to present their works with my best intention of raising awareness. Now let's go through a quick little summary of the works I chose and why.

I decided to include "BAMA" by Jahvis Loveday in my Padlet because it shows how the mind of an Indigenous man works and thinks outside of the colonial reserves. The short length of the film helps to keep the viewer connected, while also making it interesting and concise.

I decided to include “Do Your Homework” by Paul Punahele Kutzen in my Padlet because it really delves deep into the atrocities that have been inflicted onto Indigenous Peoples throughout time immemorial. It's presented beautifully in the form of rap, which also helps to catch the viewers attention.

I decided to include "I am 10 years old" by Astokomii Smith in my Padlet because it brings light to the darkness of missing and murdered Indigenous women. It shows us that no matter the ethnicity, we all deserve to be treated fairly and with respect, which is a beautiful message the world needs to hear today.

I decided to include "Not Forgotten" by Maxine Noel in my Padlet because it represents the true spirit of Indigenous Peoples, which lies in their sensibilities, generosity, and loving nature. Even after dealing with the atrocities that they have to deal with on a regular basis, they still overcome the battle of life and give arms to those in need.

I decided to include "Rez Ball" by Byron Graves in my Padlet because it includes the the struggle of dealing with contemporary Indigenous issues at a broader level, outside the rez.

Unravel the knowledge presented in each of these 5 works by carefully examining the info and message presented. You will soon realize that the Indigenous way of life is thoroughly connected to the traditions passed on by Indigenous ancestors.

# data[].attributes.body
I chose "Not Forgotten" by Maxine Noel of the Oglala Sioux Nation to include in my mixtape because it shows the reality of missing and murdered Indigenous women, which is often overlooked as a mere statistic to most.

Noel specifically created this piece to remember and honour the spirits of missing and murdered Indigenous women, as she uttered, "Our mothers and daughters, our sisters and aunties and grandmothers. Our women are our heart and our spirit, always honored, never forgotten."

This quote not only encapsulates the respect that these missing and murdered Indigenous women deserve, but also gives us a glimpse into the life that these women once lived. They had to face animosity for something that they couldn't control, which was being born into an Indigenous family. As a result, they were unexpectedly taken from this world by cruel and wicked predators, who found them as an easy target due to their Indigenous background. If these women were from any other background in the country, then news channels would be acknowledging their kidnappings, rapes, and deaths in an instant. Since they are Indigenous though, they are viewed as a mere statistic for the country's stat sheets.

This piece of art has guided me to think about and honour the poor souls who lost their lives based on their identity as an Indigenous person. It has served as a reminder that discrimination and injustice are still prevalent in today's society, which is why it's important to advocate for Indigenous rights and justice. Others need to engage with it because it inspires them to take action as well. The hate-filled roots of this world can only be uprooted by our joint efforts. If we aren't willing to uproot these roots of hate, then who will, the colonizers?

Therefore, "Not Forgotten" by Maxine Noel not only highlights the harsh realities faced by missing and murdered Indigenous women, but also serves as a touching call to acknowledge and address these injustices. By including this artwork in my mixtape, I am ensuring that the sacrifices of these brave women are honoured and respected. I urge everyone to advocate for a reconstruct of how we view missing and murdered Indigenous women today, and bring visibility to the agonizing issue which is often referred to as a mere statistic.

# data[].attributes.body
I chose "Do Your Homework" by Paul Punahele Kutzen of the Mākaha Nation to include in my mixtape because it represents Indigenous worldviews, ways of knowing, and traditional practices.

For example, many Indigenous Peoples view the land as a sacred entity that sustains life and provides nourishment to living beings. Over the years, many colonizers came and forcefully took over Indigenous land in the name of righteousness. However, it is stated in the song that "only the unrighteous see silence as consent" (Kutzen 0:27 - 0:30).

This shows that the colonizers don't consider the views of the Indigenous Peoples who have been living on this land since time immemorial. All they do is divide and conquer, regardless of whether or not the subjects on that land agree or disagree. By asserting the idea that silence doesn't equate to consent, Kutzen challenges the historical and ongoing exploitation of Indigenous land and resources.

This song has deeply inspired me to be more vocal when I see injustices happen, and not to be silent. It serves as a powerful reminder that silence can be detrimental, and that voicing my beliefs is a crucial step in advocating for fairness and integrity. Others should engage with this song because it promotes cultural understanding and respect for Indigenous worldviews, traditions, and practices. By listening to the song, individuals can learn about Indigenous values such as respect for the land and community, which are crucial to peaceful and sustainable living.

Therefore, engaging with "Do Your Homework" by Paul Punahele Kutzen not only highlights the exploitation of Indigenous land and resources, but also promotes cultural understanding and respect for Indigenous worldviews, traditions, and practices. By listening to this song, individuals gain valuable insights into the extraordinary connection Indigenous Peoples have with their land and the ongoing struggles they face because of it. This encourages listeners to reflect on their own roles in addressing systemic injustices, while also advocating for Indigenous rights.

# data[].attributes.body
I chose "BAMA" by Jahvis Loveday of the Bundjalung people of Northern New South Wales (NSW) to include in my mixtape because it very accurately depicts the struggle of self-belonging in the mind of an Indigenous person living in an urban environment.

For example, many Indigenous people who move out of their rez into the city are looked down upon, even though they are just trying to meet their family's needs. They are viewed as intruders, which is ironic coming from the family members of colonizers. These family members create such an atmosphere for Indigenous Peoples that they don't even feel welcome on their own land. Jahvis narrates, "I'm scared. Scared of the city. It's so different here. The people are so different" (Loveday 0:06 - 0:27).

Loveday's narration beautifully summarizes the fear and uneasiness that Indigenous people feel when they move into the city. The way this short film shows the clash between Indigenous values and urban lifestyles really highlights how complicated it is to figure out who you are and where you belong. It does a great job of capturing the emotional trauma that takes place on the individual, who is trying to stay true to their culture while also fitting into a new environment.

"BAMA" by Jahvis Loveday has impacted me very deeply, as it has shed light on the emotional and psychological challenges that Indigenous individuals face in urban environments. It has highlighted the struggle to maintain cultural identity while navigating unfamiliar urban territory, which has been considered enemy land for centuries. Others need to engage with this short film because it will enable them to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions regarding Indigenous individuals and their lifestyles. By debunking these myths, "BAMA" allows urban individuals to cross the boundary set by colonizers, from where they can genuinely connect with their Indigenous community members.

Therefore, including "BAMA" by Jahvis Loveday in my mixtape not only portrays the struggle of self-belonging experienced by Indigenous individuals in urban environments, but also explains the emotional and psychological challenges they face. They should be able to roam freely on the land of their ancestors, but are forced to put on the identity of someone who they truly don't want to become. Analyzing this short film, watchers are encouraged to put their feet into the shoes of the Indigenous individuals who leave their families in search of a better quality of life. Through this short film, watchers gain many important and valuable insights into the complexities of identity and belonging, which can further develop their brains to be inclusive, rid of hatred, and empathetic.

# data[].attributes.body
Graves, Byron. Rez Ball. Heartdrum, 2023.

# data[].attributes.body
I chose "Rez Ball" by Byron Graves of the Ojibwe Nation to include in my mixtape because it addresses contemporary Indigenous issues such as cultural preservation, systemic racism and discrimination, and substance abuse and recovery.

For example, Tre's reservation lacks essential resources such as sports facilities, educational support, and healthcare. This lack of resources hinders Tre's path of growth and success compared to his peers, as they are from more privileged backgrounds. This can vividly be seen when Tre describes, "A car is rumbling down our dirt road. A few seconds later, I can hear the distinct rattle of the muffler of Uncle Ricky’s rez bomb. I tuck my phone in my pocket, grab the empty bag of Doritos off my floor, and peek out the window" (Graves 68).

It is quite evident that Tre's family is in a very poor socioeconomic condition, in which their road isn't even built. This could only lead us to believe that the entire rez consists of dirty roads, which could further prove the belief that everything in the rez is ghetto. Uncle Ricky's "rez bomb", which just means a broken down or old car, doesn't even have a proper muffler, which shows that the entire family is bearing the gruesome effects of poverty and discrimination in the rez.

This novel has uncovered a new layer of empathy for me, as I have come to realize that not everyone is as privileged as I am. Many people like Tre dream of the opportunities that I am presented with, so it would be highly unjust of me to not be grateful for them. Others should also engage with this piece of literature for the same reason, as the world has been in great need of empathy and compassion in recent times. Together, we can confront the social injustices that impact the people all around us, so why shouldn't we?

Therefore, "Rez Ball" by Byron Graves not only highlights contemporary Indigenous issues but also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many Indigenous communities. By including this novel in my mixtape, I am trying to emphasize the importance of empathy, cultural preservation, and the need to address systemic inequalities and injustices. If we work together to offer everyone the same opportunities regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic class, then the world would be filled with great human beings like Tre.