Grounded in Story: A Visual Land Acknowledgment

Sep 4, 2025

On the main floor of the Salmon Arm CMHA and the Hudson Thrift Shoppe building a meaningful project took shape.

This project was created in partnership with the Salmon
Arm Arts Centre, Launch!, artist Sara Weins, local
Indigenous youth, and the Canadian Mental Health
Association. This visual Land Acknowledgement offered
youth a meaningful opportunity to develop their artistic
skills while contributing collaboratively to a community driven art piece.

What makes this project especially powerful is the active
involvement of the youth in shaping the final piece —
from filling in intricate details to designing the various
foliage, plants, and trees featured in the foreground.
Each plant was intentionally chosen, with a unique story
and cultural significance behind it.

In designing the trees, artist Sara Weins was inspired by
actual species found along our local trails. One standout
feature is the painting of the Jack Pine, a tree that
symbolizes resilience and endurance within the rugged
Canadian landscape. It serves as a poignant reminder of
strength and perseverance — a reflection of those who
continue to stand tall despite life’s challenges.