The community of Virden will be dedicating their newest outdoor artwork next week Monday, September 30th dedicated to the Dakota Nations of the past, present and future.
Media Release - September 23, 2024
On September 30, 2024 at 2:00 pm, the community of Virden will dedicate the town’s newest outdoor artwork located at 229 Seventh Avenue South to the Dakota Nations of the past, present and future.
The mural features include heritage and activities of the Dakota Nations that are relatable to a wide range of generations.
All are welcome to attend the Dedication Ceremony and the Reception to immediately follow. Manitoba 150 grants provided by the Province of Manitoba and matching funds from the Town of Virden made the artwork possible.
The Virden Boost Steering Committee, who supports and provides input to the Town of Virden Council, originally completed a significant amount of preliminary work associated with the mural project.
This mural is the first in Virden to depict the local Dakota history and pays tribute to the relationship with all Dakota Nations and the Community of Virden. Beauty is added to the Town Centre of Virden by the mural and welcomes all, as it is a location to learn, pay tribute and find connection.
“We are extremely thrilled with the completed mural, as the colors, images and history displayed are very meaningful” says Tina Williams, Mayor of Virden. “The mural and the upcoming Dedication Ceremony is an important milestone in our community’s path towards truth and reconciliation.”
Lola Thunderchild, local Dakota Advocate supported artists Erica and Mary Lowe, by sharing her knowledge of the unwritten history of the Dakota Nations, resulting in the creation of the mural.
The painting of the mural took approximately 1 month and was completed with supplies generously donated by Home Hardware Virden.
“From the mural, it is hoped that viewers from all backgrounds will share their own experiences, encouraging conversations as to where they came from and be motivated to ask questions about the Dakota history and heritage” says Lola Thunderchild, local Dakota Advocate. “Taking the time to inquire, listen and learn will allow for knowledge keepers from all backgrounds to share and provide future generations with the ability to continue passing the information forward.”
The mural dedication will be held at 2:00 pm at 229 Seventh Avenue South in Virden, which is the building where RBC operates.
In addition to the dedication ceremony, storyboards explaining key elements of the mural will be on display for review and reading.
Immediately following the Dedication Ceremony, a Reception will take place in the Sunrise Banquet Hall at 900 Fifth Avenue South.
Please listen to more with Virden Mayor, Tina Williams below!
To view the video that shares the progression of the painting of the mural at the Town of Virden Facebook Page.