Two Spirit Rising
Margaret August
Margaret August: Two Spirit Rising
Artist
Margaret August
Dates
Wednesday January 20, 2021, 12:00 pm to Saturday January 28, 2023, 5:00 pm
This January, artist Margaret August (Shíshálh Nation) installed a new mural project in the foyer at Open Space.
Two Spirit Rising presents a series of images that includes depictions of Thunderbirds as symbols of strength, power and protection. The project speaks to the two spirited people who are rising in today's world to show their gifts, and to find their gifts.
Margaret’s work is the fourth in the foyer series that welcomes people into the gallery, following previous projects by Toronto-based artist Ness Lee, Victoria-based mural artist Jesse Campbell and conceptual artist Garry Neill Kennedy.
Two Spirit Rising will be viewable in the gallery foyer space from January 13, 2021 - January 28, 2023.
Artist Interview
Artist Margaret August (Shíshálh Nation) introduces us to the works in their Two Spirit Rising installation currently on view in the foyer at Open Space. They also share with us a bit about the inspiration behind the series and some details about their working process and their art practice. Margaret’s work will be on display until December 2021.
Two Spirit Rising (photos by Kyra Kordoski)
Two Spirit Rising (photos by Kyra Kordoski)
Two Spirit Rising (photos by Kyra Kordoski)
Two Spirit Rising (photos by Kyra Kordoski)
Two Spirit Rising (photos by Kyra Kordoski)
Two Spirit Rising (photos by Kyra Kordoski)
About the artist
Margaret August is a Two-Spirited, Coast Salish artist from Shíshálh Nation. Margaret was born in 1983 in the traditional unceded Lkwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ territories, now referred to as Victoria B.C. Margaret’s work is inspired by their traditional teachings and encounters with nature. Margaret originally began developing their artistic talents at an early age. They carried on with their visual art practice as they became an adult. Some of their artistic influences include renowned artists such as Susan Point, Mark Preston and Butch Dick. Margaret has been showing work in group art shows since 2011, by taking the necessary time to grow as an artist while developing their own style, and in their business skills.
In 2019, Margaret started working with further training under the guidance and mentorship of fellow Coast Salish Artist, Dylan Thomas to sharpen their skill set towards advancement in Salish art and design. This has led to creating art in multiple mediums such as serigraph/giclee prints, glass, cedar sandblasted pieces and more. Margaret is committed to their art practice as they believe it is their life’s purpose.
Margaret August (image provided by artist)