ARTIST PROFILE
Artist
White Bear Standing By Danielle Vienneau
From the Kijicho-Manito Madaouskarini Algonquin Nation (Bancroft, Ontario), artist Sherry Crawford was given the name White Bear Standing over 20 years ago at a Shake Tent Ceremony. For the last 25 years, Crawford has spent a great deal of her time learning about her Algonquin culture through her own research, and by attending ceremony, Elder gatherings, conferences and workshops. She aims to live her life by the Seven Grandfather Teachings and believes in a holistic approach to life.
I
t is Crawford’s belief that art is a universal form of expression and communication, with the ability to connect all people. She also considers art a modality for healing unique to each person who views, creates or lavishes in both. Crawford has always enjoyed the creative process and the challenge of trying new mediums and techniques, most recently dabbling in the Woodland style. Crawford is a peaceful advocate for Indigenous rights and aims to inspire positive change through her art, social work and other roles, including being an active advisory committee member of the Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini Algonquin Nation in Bancroft,
20 | BUSINESS & ECONOMICS
Ontario. She holds a degree in Social Service through the First Nations Technical Institute (Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory) and through St. Lawrence College. Crawford is a former circle member at Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle, and in 2018 she was trained as an Archaeology Liason for the Algonquins of Ontario. At her core, Crawford is an artist and a teacher who looks for opportunities to educate others through her craft and as a workshop facilitator. She has a strong work ethic, hustling and travelling to various festivals throughout the year to meet others and showcase her work.
