New Mural at RIH (image credit - RIH Foundation)

By Michael Reeve

CULTURAL MURAL

Royal Inland Hospital unveils cultural wall

Feb 15, 2023 | 4:16 PM

KAMLOOPS — When Chris Bose was first approached to paint a mural that represented all of the local First Nation communities and the Metis, he said no. But after some thought, and some pressure, he decided to take on the challenge.

“It was actually really cool. Everyone was really happy just to be part of it. We had offers of ideas, everyone wanted to help. Once we got past that initial (doubt), it was really fun,” said Bose.

Dean Gladue from the Metis Nation of B.C. was on hand and amazed by how the mural was able to bring forward all of the different cultures.

“The sash comes from the French, from the early voyageurs, but it played a major role in our survival. At one time is was used as a rope or different aspects or thread but now it has come to symbolize our culture. And that is where the significance of the sash comes in,” said Gladue.

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It was important for the Metis to be included in the mural as one of the three aboriginal groups in Canada along with the First Nations and Inuit.

“Our people need to feel welcome in a setting such as a hospital or other government institutions. That is why it is important here that we get an equal partnership and an equal sense of welcome in here. That is why we got heavily involved in the project,” added Gladue.

Both Gladue and Bose had the same response for their favorite part of the mural, a medicine wheel surrounded by salmon. The hope is that those passing the mural will take a moment to reflect about the history of our region.

“Hopefully, they get a moment of reflection. I hope it calms them down, hope it gives them hope and happiness and good vibes. Because that is what it is all about with this mural,” said Bose.

The mural can be found in the atrium of the new Phil and Jennie Gaglardi Tower at Royal Inland Hospital.