The Sheep River Library has received a generous donation of artwork and photographs by acclaimed visual artist Bruno Canadien, enriching the library’s cultural collection and visual storytelling.
Canadien is a respected multidisciplinary artist whose work explores Indigenous presence, kinship and relationality in contemporary society.
Through painting, drawing, installation, land-based art and digital media, his artistic practice centres Indigenous worldviews and ways of knowing, while celebrating Indigenous continuity and expression.
Originally from Denendeh (Northwest Territories), Canadien is a member of the Deh Gah Got’ı́é Dene First Nation of Zhati Ko ́ e ́, part of the Deh Cho Region and the Dene Nation.
Since graduating from the Alberta College of Art in 1993, he has remained active in the regional and national arts scene. His contributions include early involvement with the Calgary Aboriginal Arts Awareness Society and his recent co-curation of Big Rock River: Contemporary Indigenous Art in an Ancient Land at the Okotoks Art Gallery.
Canadien’s work has been featured in exhibitions across Canada, including the Art Gallery of Alberta, Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Biennale d’Art Contemporain Autochtone in Montreal.
His paintings are held in numerous public and private collections, including the Glenbow Museum, Global Affairs Canada and the Indigenous Art Centre.
Now based in Black Diamond, Canadien continues his practice while grounding himself in the traditional territories of the Siksikaitsitapi, Tsuut’ina and Îethka Nakoda Wîcastabi people.
The Sheep River Library said it is grateful to receive this meaningful donation, which expands and deepens the cultural and artistic offerings available to the community.
The donated works are on display at the library, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with Indigenous perspectives and artistic excellence.
