Renowned Cree artist Kent Monkman unveils his first public art installation, “The Colony,” in Toronto’s east end on Wednesday. Standing at 15 feet tall, this permanent bronze sculpture showcases dancing, feasting beavers, symbolizing Indigenous ceremonies and the historical significance of these animals in Turtle Island’s ecosystem.
Situated in Biidsaasige Park along the Lassonde Art Trail, this captivating artwork pays tribute to the essential role beavers played in both Indigenous and colonial histories. The location at the meeting point of the Don River and Lake Ontario holds deep significance, being a vital waterway for various First Nations for millennia.
Kent Monkman, a Fisher River Cree Nation member, shares that the inspiration behind the sculpture comes from Veremondo Rossi’s whimsical 18th-century beaver engravings. He emphasizes the importance of honoring the land, water, and cultural traditions through this celebratory depiction of beavers gathering for a feast.
A pioneer in using classical painting, film, and performance to challenge colonial narratives in Western art, Monkman’s artistic prowess is recognized globally, with his works being part of prestigious collections like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
Keyphrase: Indigenous art installation
