artist statement
Water, Circles, Healing
When my witness and I met to discuss our collaboration as witness and artist, we agreed that our co-conceived works would focus on the positive aspects of her experiences, rather than the challenges. This perspective led us to explore her role as part of a team and the significance of working together to support others. We reflected on the symbolism of circular tables and drums—both of which bring people together—and this inspired me to create works on elk hide hand drums. 
Together, we engaged in a contemplative practice before sleeping and after waking, using visualizations to generate the colours and symbols that were woven into these works.
Equally powerful is water, with its innate ability to heal, which is why we incorporated it into the work. Grace spoke about the significance of going to the water’s edge, a practice that holds healing potential for many of the people she works with. I included bladderwrack for its renowned cleansing properties, further emphasizing the theme of healing and renewal.
A Safe Person
We discussed the profound impacts of having a safe person—how even one safe person can be transformative on the healing journey. 
To symbolize this, we chose a tree, recognizing trees as our relatives and beings we can always turn to for connection and safety.
bio
An interdisciplinary Métis artist with mixed European Nevada’s ancestry, work incorporates printmaking, painting,
sculpture and digital art. She received a BFA from Emily Carr University + Design, of Art and is currently enrolled in the
University MFA Visual Art program at the of British Columbia. Nevada’s An activist at heart, work is largely defined by her
commitment to social and climate justice. She is the recipient of the 2024 Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia Award for her work in reconciliation, democracy and inclusion.
