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Inspiration

Jaylene Cardinal

My name is Jaylene Cardinal, and I'm the artist behind the Unity Box of Kebaonish. My inspiration for this art piece was rooted in the concepts of unity, peace, and spirit, illustrating how everything is interconnected through the teachings that guide us on a good path.

Starting from the middle, I painted seven orbs, each representing one of the Seven Grandfather Teachings: honesty, wisdom, truth, humility, love, bravery, and respect. These teachings are powerful spirits that hold the responsibility of guiding people. They teach us to live in harmony with Mother Earth.

On both sides of the orbs, I depicted a male and a female figure made out of leaves to demonstrate the balance of the connecting force that creates life. This balance is a significant part of the grand story that includes the spirit of all beings.

Beneath these figures, I painted two canoes representing the Two Row Wampum belt, symbolizing the peace treaties between European settlers and Indigenous people. This belt is a powerful reminder of the mutual respect and coexistence promised in those treaties.

All of these elements are encased within the eagle, a bird that flies closest to the Creator. The eagle carries messages from our ancestors, reminding us to walk a good path and take care of our Mother Earth. This is why I painted trees as the eagle's wings, representing our return to our roots.

The Unity Box embodies the essence of interconnectedness and the importance of living in harmony with nature and each other. It is a visual representation of the teachings and values that lead us on a path of goodness and balance.

Description

Why the Love Unity Box is an Important Gift

The Love Unity Box is not just a collection of delightful items; it’s a symbol of the Kebaonish values of unity, peace, and the spirit of interconnectedness. Each item is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the experience of coming together and sharing special moments. By embracing these values, we foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our relationships and our shared journey through life.

Create Lasting Memories

Every item in our Love Unity Box is carefully selected to bring people together. It’s more than a gift; it’s an experience that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. Whether it’s sharing a cup of tea, enjoying a sweet treat, or the simple joy of breaking bread together, the Love Unity Box is designed to bring you closer to your loved ones. These moments of connection are the foundation of our relationships, and the Love Unity Box helps to create and preserve these precious times.

Reconciliation and Support for Indigenous Artists and Entrepreneurs

Supporting the Love Unity Box is also a step toward reconciliation and a commitment to supporting Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs. In a world that often overlooks the contributions of Indigenous peoples, choosing to support businesses like Kebaonish helps to uplift and empower Indigenous communities. Reconciliation is not just about acknowledging past injustices but actively working towards a future where Indigenous voices are heard, respected, and celebrated.

By purchasing the Love Unity Box, you are contributing to the economic self-determination of Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs. This support is critical in breaking down systemic barriers and fostering an environment where Indigenous creativity and business can thrive. Your choice to invest in Indigenous products ensures that the rich cultural heritage and unique perspectives of Indigenous peoples continue to flourish and be shared with the world.

Artist

Melissa Brant

Melissa Brant stands tall and proud as an Indigenous woman, holding multifaceted roles: a mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Beyond these intimate roles, Melissa's identity blossoms vibrantly as a multidisciplinary artist specializing in face and body painting.

To Melissa, art is not just a medium of expression; it's a beacon, illuminating the richness of culture. It plays a pivotal role in weaving together generations, offering a platform to share knowledge, inspire the youth, and connect with the wisdom of elders. It becomes a silent yet powerful communicator, voicing sentiments when words fall short. She celebrates healing, understanding, acceptance, purpose, and illumination through her art.

Every brushstroke echoes her gratitude to those who paved the path before her, those walking beside her, and those who will trail-blaze in the future. Melissa's exceptional talent emerges most brilliantly when she merges illusion with body art, ushering her work into a realm of innovation and vision.

Over the past decade, her artistry has traversed a broad spectrum - from abstract creations and lifelike portraits to expansive murals and enchanting masquerades. Whether working on canvas, glass, or human skin, Melissa's touch metamorphoses the ordinary into extraordinary.