"Water is Sacred" by Lorne Julien

Part of the InterCHANGE program of temporary public artworks within the redeveloped Cogswell District

Artist: Lorne Julien
Artwork title: Water is Sacred
Year: 2025
Dimensions: 94’W x 8’H
Medium: Painted mural
Location: Granville Park, corner of Hollis St and Reconciliation Way

This mural is presented in partnership with Halifax Mural Festival

About the artist

Lorne Alexander Julien is a proud Mi’kmaw artist and member of Millbrook First Nation, We’kopekitk, Nova Scotia. He specializes in contemporary Indigenous acrylic paintings and murals. His Mi’kmaw name is “Warrior on the Hill” (Sma'knis) which was given to him in his youth when he learned about the spiritual way of his people

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About the Artwork

The mural is painted to honour the water (Samqwan). Water is everywhere. The oceans, the rivers, our drinking water, water inside of us, inside of all creatures. Water is life and it must be held sacred and protected. The image in the middle shows a purple eagle, symbolizing love and joy and water. The eagle (kitpu ) stands for respect and protection. On either side are eagles in the scared colours of the four directions, the colours of the medicine wheel. All the eagles are holding an orange heart, to remember the victims of residential schools, the families and communities that are still affected. The eagle is also a sacred animal, one that carries prayers to the creator. A prayer for healing and protection of the water and all human beings.

Location

Granville Park, corner of Hollis St and Reconciliation Way

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