Artist shares talents with communities

By Greg Plain

CHIPPEWAS of the THAMES – The Munsee-Delaware daycare has new artwork thanks to Chippewas of the Thames artist Nancy Deleary.

Deleary, who is pursuing her master’s degree in Fine Arts at the University of Vermont, has also created memorial art projects to honour the residential school experience.

“Through my path of healing I acknowledge the teachings and ceremony that is shared with me and my community – for now I understand that I am one of a great nation of people,” says the Nokomis of four.  “Through the teachings – I learned that I have responsibility for the gift that I have.  Through ceremony – I have the opportunity to give thanks for all that I am blessed with in this life.”

Deleary’s wall murals can be seen on Chippewas of the Thames and Munsee-Delaware Nation’s community centres.  She is also the chairperson for culture, language and heritage committee.

“I attribute my artistic abilities to my mother’s Crane Clan side and my leadership qualities to my father’s Loon Clan.”