REGINA — The Hotel Saskatchewan has recognized the importance of truth and reconciliation through the unveiling of a newly commissioned artwork by local Indigenous artist Harley Sinclair.
Sinclair’s artwork is based on a photo he took of the sun setting one day while driving home from work.
“I made the decision to practise active presence,” he said. Sinclair mentioned Saskatchewan is known for its sunsets, so he wanted to capture them as a reminder of how fleeting life can be.
Sinclair worked on the painting for roughly 32 hours, describing the biggest challenge as sticking to pushing his boundaries as he incorporated brushwork into his technique, which normally consists of palette knives.
“It was a learning experience, just as every future piece will be.”
The meaning behind the painting is the vastness of Saskatchewan, which many call home.
Sinclair grew up feeling alone, so he hopes the painting can make people feel the warmth of a home.
The collaboration between Sinclair and the Hotel Saskatchewan started gaining momentum roughly a year ago.
“Talking to Harley [Sinclair] and hearing his stories. [There] just [was] that sense of connection,” said the Hotel Saskatchewan's director of marketing and sales, Ashley Pelechytik.
Pelechytik said this has been a long time coming and is part of their path towards truth and reconciliation.
The Hotel Saskatchewan also raised the flags of the Métis Nation and Treaty 4, the land on which Regina stands.
Pelechytik said this effort was showcasing the hotel as a welcoming place for all.
Sinclair’s artwork will be hung at the entrance of the hotel between the exterior and interior doors in two weeks.
When talking about his painting being hung, Sinclair said, “It hasn't hit me yet, but I feel like it's a real pinch me moment.”
“I hope that it creates a moment of pause for people when they are coming to the hotel to provide a bit of reflection and acknowledge[ment],” said Pelechytik.
Pelechytik also said the Hotel Saskatchewan will continue creating opportunities for local businesses, organizations and artists.
As for Sinclair, he will continue creating these opportunities and living as an artist.
