WAPOSHPYII
Calgary, Canada
Waposhpyii, also known as Paityn Savoie is a two-spirit, Métis illustrator currently residing in Treaty No. 7. They specialize in printmaking and public art. They graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts with a Bachelors in Illustration Design and a Minor in Printmaking. Paityn’s work is deeply influenced by their Indigenous culture, community, and connection to nature. A significant aspect of their artistry is the inclusion of animals, which hold spiritual significance in their daily life. These representations reflect traditional Métis beliefs and embody Paityn’s direct connections with Turtle Island. Their work incorporates elements of Cree Woodland art and delicate Métis floral art, resulting in distinctive and conceptual creations. Their pieces are titled in Cree and English, showcasing a unique synthesis of artistic vision. Beyond creative expression, Paityn is dedicated to community, education, and advocacy.
Mural Statement
This piece presents a Hare accompanied by a delicate Indian Paintbrush flower. The design juxtaposes the fiercely protective nature of the hare with the parasitic nature of the flower. The Hare represents my spirit—free-roaming yet protective of its territory. This embodies the balance between openness and defense, highlighting the values of my culture: deep-rooted connections to the land and guardianship of traditions.
The Indian Paintbrush flower, known for its parasitic tendencies, symbolizes the challenges Indigenous people face in maintaining their spirit and identity in a colonized world. This parasitism reflects the struggle to preserve cultural heritage amidst external pressures, not only through its beauty but its own name as well.
Through the interplay of the Hare and the Indian Paintbrush flower, the artwork conveys a narrative of resilience and cultural preservation, celebrating the beauty and complexity of artistry and the enduring spirit of Indigenous cultures.