Presenting the Regina Open Door Society Mural, a captivating mosaic of cultural harmony co-created by Indigenous and newcomer artists with participation from our youth program participants and the support of our community partners. This initiative aims to forge a vibrant and inclusive space for newcomers while honouring the profound impact and significance of Indigenous history and art in shaping our city.
At the heart of this mural, you’ll find abstract portraits of newcomers, symbolizing the diversity of the people who have chosen to call Regina their home. These portraits stand proudly against representations of the Indigenous land and resources, acknowledging the profound impact and significance of the original peoples of this land. The sun and moon in this masterpiece are adorned with Kookum scarves, which embody the spirit of unity and cooperation between the First Nations, Metis, and Ukrainian settlers who have coexisted on this land for generations. The clothing of the people in the mural has original garments from the culture they represent to showcase the intricacy and beauty of the pieces.
As you journey through the mural, you’ll notice the delicate beauty of national flowers from various countries, tenderly placed across the landscape. Each bloom represents the vibrant cultures that enrich our city, emphasizing the celebration of multiculturalism at the very core of this project. The words welcome, expressed in multiple languages, are skillfully added to the tiles framing the mural, and the design, further emphasizing the openness and warmth of our community. This mural is a symbol of our collective commitment to building bridges between cultures, embracing diversity, and fostering a sense of belonging for all.
The intricate patterned tiles that frame the mural also serve as a testament to the tireless efforts of our youth program participants, who, with brushes in hand and hearts united, have contributed their time and passion to help bring this vision to life.
The Regina Open Door Society Mural Project would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of many organizations. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Regina Open Door Society staff, Dunlop Art Gallery, Regina Public Library, and the Regina Downtown Business Improvement District for joining forces with lead artists Geanna Dunbar and Bruno Hernani. Their visionary guidance has guided the artistic process and helped shape this remarkable mural into a true reflection of our values.
This mural serves as a powerful testament to the strength of unity, reminding us of the beauty that emerges when cultures intertwine and respect one another. It calls upon us to embrace our collective heritage, acknowledge the importance of Indigenous history, and continue building a city where everyone feels at home.
As you gaze upon this masterpiece, we hope it ignites a sense of pride and joy within your heart. We invite you to immerse yourself in the stories it tells, celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that call Regina home, and be inspired to build a stronger, more welcoming community for generations to come.
