There's a new mural in Burnaby and it can be found at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT).
As part of Vancouver Mural Festival, Coast Salish artist Kelly Cannell created Keepers of the Land, designed as a land, sea and skyscape of the traditional territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ təməxʷ (Tsleil-Waututh) nations.
Cannell, from Musqueam Nation, said it was her intention to capture the connection of three host Coast Salish Nations to the environment.
She chose the raven and eagle to "symbolize the vision of BCIT."
The raven's mischievous and curious character symbolizes knowledge and prestige; the highly respected eagle represents honour, strength and courage, according to Cannell.
"Together the birds take flight from the mountain with their wings soaring over the sea," wrote Cannell in her artist statement.
She used a triangle to represent the local mountains and symbolize the three host nations united as one.
"The wings of the birds become the water of the Salish Sea. Below are two salmon, a staple to Coast Salish food and culture. Presented in pairs, salmon represent good luck and symbolize life, prosperity, abundance, and renewal."
You can see the mural at the entranceway of BCIT's Burnaby campus.
