The Seven Gifts in Almonte has been a stand-alone commemoration of Truth and Reconciliation since its official opening held September 17th at its location in Riverfront Park.
The event included smudging and drumming ceremonies, prayer offerings, as well as stories from Elders, the artists involved, and a traditional Indigenous feast.
The installation features a 25-foot-wide circle of seven marble stones, each about five feet high. Each stone supports a bronze totem animal representing one of the gifts. Completing the sacred space are native plantings, interpretive signage and a commemorative plaque.
The initiative is a project led by Mississippi Mills All My Relations.
Artists involved are Indigenous wood carver Nish Nabie, stone sculptor Deborah Arnold, mould maker Darlene McLeod and bronze fabricator Dale Dunning.
Says Mayor Christa Lowry, “The Seven Gifts project is, in my view, one of the most significant undertakings of our Bicentennial year.”
The Seven Gifts is also a feature of the Almonte Wellness Trail, an interactive, multi-generational project.
By Rick Stow