Multidisciplinary artist Cheyenne Rain LeGrande describes herself as a nêhiyaw (Cree) alien. Often depicted in her artworks wearing towering platform moccasins, a glow-in-the-dark shawl and otherworldly makeup, she certainly looks the part of a celestial being.
Originally from Bigstone Cree Nation in Alberta, LeGrande will touch down at 鶹ýվ March 9-20 to serve as the artist in residence for the Faculty of Arts Institute for Indigenous Research and Knowledges (FAIIRK).
She’ll host artist talks, lead a workshop and give her first solo performance in Montreal.
“It’s such an honour to be asked to be the artist in residence,” said LeGrande. “I think sharing knowledge is really important, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to share my art with the students.”
Noelani Arista, Director of FAIIRK, said the Institute is also honoured to host LeGrande.
“Supporting Indigenous artists, writers, and knowledge holders is an important part of our work. Cheyenne’s presence will contribute to the intellectual and creative life of the University,” Arista said. “Her artistic practice reflects powerful connections between Indigenous knowledge, history and contemporary creative expression.”
Courtesy of the artist
Modern influences, enduring traditions
LeGrande’s art practice began with drawing and painting, and has expanded to include photography, video, sound, installation and performance art. She credits her alma mater, the Emily Carr University of Art + Design, in Vancouver, for helping her to advance in her artistic practice.
“All the classes, the friends and the community I made there really helped pave the way for where I am today,” she said. “I actually had a strong Indigenous community there, which was really meaningful. It can be difficult, especially as an Indigenous person, to be working and existing in an institutional space.”
Indigeneity is central to her art.
“A lot of my university work was working through intergenerational trauma as an Indigenous person. Now it has developed to a place of intergenerational joy and resilience and love: reclaiming the past, reflecting on my identity today and thinking about the future.”
Her work often blends Indigenous traditions with modern influences, inspiring her signature platform moccasins, her shawl made of ribbon and pop can tabs and her shawl with LED lighting, which was inspired by the northern lights. Both shawls will feature in her 鶹ýվ performance, and she’ll teach her ribbon weaving technique in her workshop.
“My work allows me to express love and healing, and I hope people take that away from my work. I really hope to inspire [鶹ýվ] students.”
Her residency is just the latest in a long line of accolades for LeGrande. She has been awarded the BMO 1st Art! Prize for emerging artists; taken part in group exhibitions, art festivals and fashion events; and has had solo shows.
Although there’s more she’d like to do – such as record music and perform her art in Japan – she said she considers sharing her knowledge with others to be the most meaningful part of her work.
“Those are the moments I’m really proud of,” she said. “Being able to give back and share my art is really special.”
Courtesy of the artist