What makes something Indigenous art? For Kainai artist Faye HeavyShield, Indigenous art is not just one thing. It is personal, and for HeavyShield, tied deeply to her story as a woman from the Blood reserve in Southern Alberta. Throughout her career, she has pushed her art into new realms, expressing the nuanced truths of her life. Host Shelby Lisk speaks with Faye HeavyShield about her life, her work, and individuality in art.

This episode mentions residential schools. The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is available 24-hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their Residential school experience. 1-800-721-0066. Please take care while listening.

To view the art referenced in this episode: https://www.tvo.org/article/the-art-of-sovereignty

Donate to TVO: http://tvo.org/give

Listen to the full 2017 interview with Faye HeavyShield: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzBSDUJKfN4

Faye HeavyShield speaks about her art practice for the Lieutenant General of Alberta Arts Award: https://artsawards.ca/artist/faye-heavyshield/

Faye HeavyShield awarded the 2021 Gershon Iskowitz Prize at the Art Gallery of Ontario: https://ago.ca/press-release/faye-heavyshield-awarded-2021-gershon-iskowitz-prize

Ontario Hubs are made possible by the Barry and Laurie Green Family Charitable Trust & Goldie Feldman.