Lou-ann Neel is a First Nations artist living in the territories of the Lekwungen people (Victoria, BC). She comes from Mamalilikulla, Ma’amtagila, and Da’naxda’xw people on her maternal side and Kwickwasutaineuk, ‘Namgis, and Kwagiulth on her paternal side. Lou-ann creates artwork in many forms, including wood carvings, jewelry, textiles and hides, paintings and prints, and vector art influenced by Kwakwaka’wakw design. She creates regalia and other works specifically for potlatch ceremonies, and also makes more contemporary works based on her experiences and worldviews as a Kwakwaka’wakw woman.
Lou-ann collaborates with Indigenous communities and urban organizations, providing support with grant writing, project management, community development, and the revitalization of artistic traditions, languages, and cultural heritage practices. Her artistic practice keeps her focused and grounded, allowing her to relate and communicate effectively with the Indigenous partners she works with.
More information can be found on Lou-ann’s website: www.lneelstudio.com
Indigenous Reconciliation at BCLC
Missing You, My Sister is dedicated to raising awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people (MMIWG2S).
On May 5, we observe Red Dress Day, also known as the National Day of Awareness for MMIWG2S. Red Dress Day was inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDress Project that uses empty red dresses to represent missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. The red dresses serve as a powerful visual reminder of violence faced by Indigenous women and girls while honouring their lives and bringing attention to their stories. On this day, Canadians are encouraged to wear red or display red dresses to show solidarity for this ongoing crisis.
As part of its reconciliation journey, BCLC is committed to educating employees about Canada’s colonial history and the current realities faced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Art plays a crucial role in the process of education and Missing You, My Sister not only honours Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit people, Survivors, families and loved ones, but also invites you to better understand the systemic issues that contribute to this crisis. We hope that the art of Lou-ann Neel inspires meaningful dialogue and action towards justice and healing.
