Saskatoon mural project gives students hands-on lessons in Michif language

A group of Saskatoon students is creating a legacy project that goes beyond the classroom. Carla Shynkaruk reports.

A group of Saskatoon students is leaving a lasting mark on their community while gaining valuable life skills through a vibrant mural that celebrates Michif culture, language and identity.

Grade 8 students in the Creative Action program at North Park Wilson School recently spent several days painting a large-scale mural beneath the Circle Drive Bridge along the pedestrian walkway.

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The project gave students an opportunity to step outside the classroom, work collaboratively, and contribute to a meaningful piece of public art that will remain in the community for years to come.

“It’s super fun. I’m in Grade 8, painting and drawing a mural with my friends,” student Amelie Duret told CTV News.

The mural was created under the guidance of local artist Josh Jacobson, who developed the project with support from a grant through the Saskatchewan Arts Board. Additional funding was provided by Infinity Credit Union, while all the paint used for the project was donated by Sherwin Williams.

Jacobson, the lead artist, came up with the idea for the project and did much of the initial legwork, but leaned on the students for the content for the mural.

“I put the pieces together. I outlined it, but with everything that’s been filled, it’s their work,” he said.

Jacobson worked closely with the Saskatoon Public Schools Knowledge Keeper Faye Maurice to ensure the mural accurately reflected Michif culture and language.

“We honour Michif culture and teach the kids what it means to be Michif and the history behind it,” Jacobson said.

Throughout the project, students learned about the Michif language, which is considered at risk of being lost. Before painting began, Maurice met with students to share knowledge about Michif culture and language, helping shape both the artwork and the educational experience.

“We had Auntie Faye come in before we started this project and teach us about the culture and the language,” student Rielle Gramlich says.

For many students, the project has become a source of pride. Some have already brought family members to see the mural and share in what they helped create.

“Over the weekend, I brought my grandparents and they really loved it,” Duret said.

The artwork has also attracted attention from people passing through the area, sparking conversations about the culture and language it represents.

“One person left a note on the wall saying, thank you for making beautiful art, and it really touched us,” Gramlich recalls.

Beyond the artistic experience, students gained valuable real-world skills by helping plan and execute a large community project.

“What does it take to do a large art project right from the ground up? Those are incredible life skills,” teacher Sheryl Salen says.

Organizers hope the mural will serve as both a lasting piece of public art and a reminder of the importance of preserving the Michif language for future generations.

An official unveiling ceremony is scheduled for June 22.