Just as a paddle moves a canoe forward with purpose and direction, four handcrafted paddles created by local First Nation artists will guide North Island College (NIC) graduates on the next stage of their journey.
Commissioned for the college’s 2025 Convocation ceremonies, the paddles were created by artists representing the First Nations connected to each of NIC’s four campuses located in Port Alberni, Campbell River, Comox Valley and Port Hardy. Each paddle reflects the different traditions and stories of the Nation it represents. Together, they also symbolize strength and resilience, which are traits that can also be attributed to NIC graduates.
“Some of the symbolism reflects empowerment and enlightenment that comes and is gained through education,” said Kwagu’ł artist and elder Mervyn Child, referencing a teaching from elder Maggie Sedgemore about the raven releasing light.
Child is one of four artists that brought cultural wisdom and artistic style to the creation of the convocation paddles. Gord Dick (Tseshaht First Nation), Karver Everson (K’ómoks First Nation) and William Henderson Jr. (Wei Wai Kum First Nation) also shared their talent, skill and knowledge.
The pieces created by each artist are as diverse and beautiful as the Nations they represent. In addition to being an important part of NIC’s convocation ceremonies, a consensus among the artists was the intent to have the paddles inspire their people and make them feel proud.
“This is for all of us as First Nations people,” explained William Henderson Jr. “I want this to warm their hearts, seeing something like this.”
While each artist’s approach differed, all shared a common goal to create works of art that uplift, educate and celebrate their people. Drawing on the wise words of his grandmother, Gord Dick shared that his culture “is like nature” and that “it’s always moving and evolving.”
The idea of movement, or motion, is something deeply woven into the paddles. Also woven into each piece is symbolism that sends a message to all learners, such as the Thunderbird which represents strength and power.
For Karver Everson, a key part of the story carved into his paddle regards his Nation’s territory and the people who call it home. “What makes me even more happy is the story that I have depicted on this paddle, how important it is for people to understand the land that they're on and the people that are still here.”
The paddles will debut at this year’s convocation ceremonies, coinciding with NIC’s 50th anniversary. As NIC reflects on a half-century of service and looks ahead, these works of art will serve as enduring reminders of where we come from, how far we’ve travelled and what lies ahead. Along with their important cultural significance, they are connected to the driving force of the waves in British Columbia’s aquatic channels and represent a means to empower NIC students towards as they travel along the waterways of life.
“This will be a great reminder to have that in the ceremonies, even if it’s subtle, I think it’ll stand the test of time. I’m certainly privileged to be a part of this project and am grateful for the opportunity,” said Everson.