The Visual Art Program on the Gordie Howe International Bridge project was developed to create memorable, high-quality, works of art consistent with the international importance of the bridge and to celebrate and to promote creativity and friendship between Canada and the US. Multiple artistic features have been incorporated into the project as a result of ongoing community feedback to integrate cultural and historical recognition features where possible.
One of these artworks is the Indigenous Art Commission taken on by Anishinaabe artist Michael Belmore. Another is the Underground Railroad Commemorative Art Commission taken on by Jordan Sook. Both commissions include a mentorship component where the artist has the opportunity to mentor a young Indigenous artist, or a young artist from the Black, African or Caribbean diaspora to teach them about the creative and administrative processes that go into public art commissions, as well as exposure to life as a working artist.
Both mentorships were open to the community, with the project working with Art Windsor Essex, two First Nations, the local school boards and other local organizations to solicit applications. Resumes and previous art experience were reviewed by the artists in selecting their mentees. Upon review, Naomi Peters was selected for the Indigenous Art mentorship and Chidera Ikewibe was selected for the Commemorative Art mentorship.
Naomi Peters
“In the fall of 2023, I was the chosen candidate from Caldwell First Nation to work with Michael Belmore, an accomplished Indigenous artist, to learn the creative process of commissioning and installing a large public artwork. Michael and other public art consultants spent many hours explaining the process. The highlight of my learning was going to the fabricator’s location to view the process of producing the artwork firsthand. Public art consultant, Karen Mills has spent endless hours helping me to create my C.V. As a result, I have now been contacted to do several art projects." – Naomi Peters
Michael Belmore’s artwork is currently in fabrication and will be installed at the Canadian Port of Entry in 2024.
Chidera Ikewibe
Chidera Ikewibe was chosen for the Commemorative Art mentorship in 2024.
“So far, it’s been an amazing experience! My first time meeting Jordan in person was at his exhibit at Art Windsor-Essex, “The Closest I’ve Felt to God.” I was blown away by his passion and consideration for both the art, and how he answered questions from the community. That experience alone made me certain I have much to learn, and I will learn a great deal from Jordan through this experience.” - Chidera Ikewibe
Jordan Sook’s artwork is currently in fabrication and will be installed outside the Canadian Port of Entry near the multi-use path in 2025.
Other original works by both artists Michael Belmore and Jordan Sook can currently be seen at Art Windsor Essex through September.
Learn more about the visual art program here.
