Wolastoqiyik
- Portrait of A People is a photographic journey into the
lifestyles, landscapes, technologies and spoken histories of a People. Here since
the beginning, Wolastoqiyik possessed a physical, intellectual and spiritual bond
with the River Wolastoq (Saint John River), it’s tributaries, lands and forests.
Wolastoqiyik, presently referred to as Maliseet, maintained an active lifestyle
while at the same time having little impact on the environment.
Wolastoqiyik
developed many technological skills perfected through hundreds of generations.
Thousands of years of experience produced expert woodworkers, potters, canoe builders,
and other special artisans. Often the wisdom of the Creator and the life sustaining
teachings of the ancestors are honored through songs, dances, feasts and spiritual
ceremonies.
Today there are approximately 4000 Wolastoqiyik living within
the province of New Brunswick. An additional 1500 live in nearby Quebec and Maine.
All Wolastoqiyik welcome you to enjoy and appreciate this amazing photographic
journey.
Acknowledgements - Maliseet
First Nations Governments; Department of Canadian
Heritage – Museums Assistance Program; Province of New Brunswick - Wellness,
Culture and Sport/ Aboriginal
Affairs Secretariat.
