Kaatagoging Book 1: Mewizha (Time Immemorial)

About Project

Since 2021, Survivors of the Indian Residential School system in Wauzhushk Onigum Nation have been on a profound healing journey called Kaatagoging (Anishinaabemowin for growing together), to uncover the truth about the St. Mary's (Kenora) Indian Residential School (1897-1972). The Kaatagoging book set is the culmination of this journey, told authentically in the Survivors' own words. Years of meticulous research—including archival data, interviews, testimonies, and mapping—were transformed into these volumes. They offer a complete history from one community's vital perspective, reflecting the shared Indigenous experience across Turtle Island.
This powerful, four-volume account includes Book 1, Mewizha ("Time Immemorial"). This volume invites readers to journey back to the beginning of time. Its light, colourful, and life-affirming aesthetic grounds the story in Anishinaabe identity through customary illustration styles, community beadwork designs, and experimental text placement. The art direction for Book 1 was informed by direct feedback from Survivors and took inspiration from local artists, notably the late Survivor John Paul Lavand.
Mewizha features two primary illustration styles that reflect the community's Anishinaabe Identity. Reminiscent of traditional Anishinaabe patterns, the first illustration style consist of intricate floral beadwork designs and portrays elements found in nature. The second direction highlights stylized artworks of animals, capturing the essence and forms of various creatures using minimal brush strokes. To emphasize movement and fluidity, negative space are utilized to depict their real-life body proportions and taper off into smooth, calligraphic lines. This design explores their sacred connection to the land and the wisdom passed through generations – a foundation that has sustained them through unimaginable challenges.