This community mural, Braided Paths, comes from a very personal place. As someone with both Indigenous and Mennonite roots, I’ve always felt like I walk between two worlds – two stories that have shaped who I am. Painting this piece has been a way of bringing those paths together, not just in art, but in spirit.
Each colour, each pattern, carries something sacred – the strength and wisdom of my Indigenous ancestors, and the faith and resiliences of my Mennonite heritage. Together, they tell story of healing connection and hope.
There are several key features in this mural:
Fraktur (Traditional Folk Art) – This Mennonite style uses calligraphy and decorative elements such a flowers – especially the tulip – to convey beauty, tradition and heritage.
Feathers – Symbols of respect, honour, and spiritual connections – often interpreted as ties to the Creator.
White Pine Tree – A sacred symbol to the Six Nations, known as the “Great Tree of Peace”, representing unity, peace and strength.
The Vines – Represent growth – particularly the growth of understanding and connection between people.
Words around the circles – Excerpts from a hymn called “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” and a poem by Indigenous Author Pauline Johnson title “Moonset”.
The Quilt Pattern – Represents community and fellowship. Quilting is a communal, often intergenerational activity, that makes practical use of fabric scraps. Quilts embody faith, love, compassion and the bond between generations.
The name Braided Paths reminds me that we don’t have to choose one part of who we are – or one part of history – over another. Like strands of a braid, they are stronger and more beautiful when intertwined. This artwork honours the truth that we are all connected – by the earth beneath us, by the Creator who sustains us, and by the shared longing for peace and belonging. Our stories are meant to come together, When they do, they create something stronger, something more whole.
The best part – this painting was created by the community and for the community. Over 80 artists took part in creating this piece. As young as just barely 2 to the wise elders who are heading towards 90. My hope is that this mural invites others to see the beauty in our shared journey – to keep listening and learning. I hope that is serves as reminder that when we honour where we come from, we can also imagine where we might go, side by side. To find unity not by erasing our differences, but by celebrating the ways they can be woven into something whole.
Special thank you to a dear friend Amy-Beth Brubacher who invited me to be a part of this community adventure and to Hearts Open For Everyone for hosting the 3rd Annual Multicultural Festival in Elmira, Ontario. To Learn more about the mural and the project please visit Hearts Open For Everyone.
teachable spirit. 
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