Artwork unveiling marks start of National Truth and Reconciliation Week at RDP
Photo (left to right): Erin Bast, President, Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic; Alex Fuiten, representing the RDP Alumni Association; George Littlechild, artist and Red Deer Polytechnic alum; Trina Carroll, Former President of CUPE local 1445; Stuart Cullum, President of Red Deer Polytechnic
Nationally renowned First Nations artist and Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) alum, George Littlechild was the guest of honour at a special event marking the start of National Truth and Reconciliation Week at RDP.
Public employees of RDP, the Students' Association of RDP (SARDP), and the RDP Alumni Association purchased a piece of Littlechild’s art entitled 4 Star Art Warrior. The organizations graciously gifted the artwork to RDP’s permanent art collection in recognition of the contributions of students, employees, and alumni and to honour Littlechild’s connection to the Polytechnic. The painting will ultimately be displayed inside the main entrance of Red Deer Polytechnic as a reminder to students, staff, and visitors of the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.
The artwork was officially unveiled at a special event held on Monday, September 25, in the Arts Centre Main Stage on RDP’s main campus. Local First Nations leaders, community members, and RDP students, staff and faculty listened as Littlechild shared his personal story as a former RDP student and Indigenous artist.
This special event is one of many taking place at Red Deer Polytechnic to acknowledge Truth and Reconciliation Week.
About Dr. George Littlechild: Dr. George Littlechild was born in Edmonton, Alberta, of Plains Cree heritage, with connections to the Maskwacis Nations. As a child, George was taken from his home as part of the ‘60s scoop and was raised in foster homes in Edmonton. The separation from his community and culture at a young age and his eventual reconnection to his ancestral heritage is often reflected in his artwork.
George began attending Red Deer College in 1982 and received his diploma in Art and Design in 1984. He went on to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, in Halifax in 1988. He holds an Honorary Doctorate from the University of the Fraser Valley.
George’s art has been exhibited all across Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. His books and his art have won numerous awards and scholarships. To date he has created hundreds of artworks, which hang in public and private collections around the world.