The last of a set of wooden sculptures depicting the Seven Grandfather Teachings is on its way to Almonte’s Riverfront Park.
Earlier this week, Renfrew artist Nish Nabie wrapped up work on an eagle, the seventh and final statue for a reconciliation art piece for Mississippi Mills All My Relations.
We met with him outside the Golden Age Activity Centre in Renfrew to learn more about the animal he was bringing to life.
Nabie’s detail work on the wooden sculpture was on display outside the downtown Renfrew facility as he finalized a months-long project for an art installation depicting the seven grandfather teachings inside Riverfront Park in Almonte.
The positive attention around Nabie’s work has town staff in Renfrew interested in commissioning him for an art piece as well.
Nabie says he’s had preliminary talks with Renfrew Mayor Tom Sidney about it, and he would relish the chance to honour the history of the town that has been a place of healing for him as he lives with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Funding for a wood sculpture in Renfrew would likely come from the 2024 budget.
In the meantime, Nabie says people who are interested in his work and trying woodcarving out for themselves are invited to meet with him and other self-taught carvers every Tuesday at the Golden Age Activity Centre from 10:00am to noon.
(written by Kasey Egan)