The City of Timmins’ annual Orange Bus campaign returns this year with a special tribute to the late Indigenous artist, Shaun Hedican. Shaun, a member of the Loon Clan and Eabametoong First Nation northeast of Thunder Bay, was the principal artist behind the mural at the Timmins Museum: National Exhibition Centre.
Shaun shared his talent and teachings with the Timmins’ community through his artwork. His museum mural, and now the City’s orange bus, features a traditional Turtle Island motif in the woodland style for which he was known. In many Indigenous origin stories, the turtle represents identity, wisdom, safety, and culture. The name “Turtle Island” can refer to the continent of North America, Canada specifically, and the belief of the turtle carrying the world on its back.
In addition to the Orange Bus campaign, both Timmins’ landmark signs in downtown Timmins and at the Timmins Museum: National Exhibition Centre, will be illuminated for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. On September 30, consider wearing an orange shirt purchased from a local Indigenous store or organization. Share the story of Orange Shirt Day, and reflect on the role each of us plays in healing and reconciliation.
For more information, visit the City of Timmins’ Indigenous Relations and Inclusion page: www.timmins.ca/find_or_learn_about/indigenous_relations_and_inclusion.
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