Meet the artist
Chris Chipak
Chris Chipak, also known by his Cree name Wapikihew (White Eagle), is an Indigenous visual artist and educator from Red Pheasant Cree Nation. Based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, he is best known for designing works with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, NBA Canada, Saskatoon Blades and most recently, his "from the beginning" exhibit in Wanuskewin Heritage Park. His work beautifully blends Indigenous storytelling with themes of cultural education and representation of Treaty 6 territory.
The Designs
This collection features four of Chipak’s recent works, each curated to offer a fresh lens on our shared homeland. From visual protectors that cleanse the spirit to symbolic representations of the land we inhabit, these designs are an invitation to share in a gift of storytelling and purpose.
The Power of Smudge
Smudging is a way to cleanse the body and mind of negative energy. It allows a fresh start to a new beginning with positivity. The Bear, Eagle, Bison and Wolf are depicted as visual protectors who prevent the acceptance of negative energy.
This design is available on unisex and women's t-shirts, and unisex hoodies.
Homeland
A connection to the land but more importantly our territory, Treaty 6 territory. The Bison roamed these areas free before maps or lines were drawn. It is only right to represent the importance of the Bison into this land by embedding it into the map of treaty 6, our homeland.
This design is available on unisex and women's t-shirts.
Wapikihew (wah-pih-kih-hue)
My traditional name is Wapikihew, which translates to White Eagle. White is an artists favorite color as it is the starting point from where you create art from. An Eagle looks after others and promotes a sense of belonging. Wapikihew reminds me of my purpose and is the foundation to my art journey. A visual reminder we all have a gift and our purpose is to share that gift.
This design is available on unisex t-shirts.
Mother Earth
This powerful woman, Mother Earth, is nurturing and protecting her most precious creation, the Earth itself. Her gentle embrace symbolizes the connection between nature and life. A reminder that the Earth is both our origin and our responsibility to protect.
This design is available on women's t-shirts.
