Ahead of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Monday, September 30, TransLink has unveiled new artwork that transit riders will see across the Expo Line.
Two SkyTrain cars now wrapped with artwork designed by Indigenous artist Shonta Campbell (Kishiqweb).
Her artwork on the SkyTrain cars are inspired by stories passed down from the artist’s grandfather, telling the tale of a canoe that saved his life and returned him to his homelands.
“The intent behind my artwork is to honour the strength and love that my community embodies,” says Shonta Campbell (Kishiqweb), a Heiltsuk, Anishinaabe, and Wuikinuxv artist. “Intergenerational trauma is an undeniable experience for Indigenous Peoples, but I want to highlight our stories of perseverance, grounded in love for one another, and our connection to our homelands.”
The SkyTrain cars with her artwork will be in service across the Expo Line starting today until next spring. An artist biography and statement will be featured inside each of the two decorated SkyTrain cars.
TransLink is also offering limited-edition orange shirts featuring artwork by Taltan Tlingit Nation, Wolf Clan artist Rose Tashoots through the TransLink Store.
“I hope to be an inspiration for people back home,” says artist and residential school survivor Rose Tashoots. “When people wear this shirt, I want them to engage in positive thinking, especially if they are residential school survivors. Wear it with pride. It supports the residential school survivors.”
Shonta tells their story as part of her latest digital art piece, which is on display wrapping two SkyTrain cars. https://t.co/RFIC1I6T1v
— News from TransLink (@TransLinkNews) September 23, 2024
As a proud partner of the Orange Shirt Day Society, TransLink understands they have an important role to play in supporting reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
“At TransLink, we recognize our role in moving reconciliation forward in meaningful ways,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “Our hope is that these artworks designed by local Indigenous artists Rose Tashoots and Shonta Campbell (Kishiqweb) will remind us of the important and ongoing work that is needed to support reconciliation.”
Bus, SkyTrain, and SeaBus will all operate on a Sunday schedule on September 30. Holiday fares will be in effect and the West Coast Express will not be operating.