Route 22 is honoured to host the work of renowned Stoney Nakoda artist, Gordon Wesley. This community exhibition is in partnership with Wazin Ichinabi Ti as part of the Indigenous Arts and Culture week in Cochrane, and will be featured until April 6 at the Route 22 Artist Collective Gallery at 208 1st Street.
Gordon Wesley is a distinguished Stoney Nakoda artist and a proud member of the Good Stoney Band within Treaty 7 territory. Residing on the Bighorn Reserve in Alberta, Canada, he draws inspiration from his Indigenous heritage and the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Gordon’s works are celebrated for their vivid depictions of wildlife and landscapes, rendered primarily in oil and acrylic.
Wesley’s art is prominently displayed at significant locations, including the Banff Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where his mural reflects the Stoney Nakoda's deep connection to the land. His contributions to the Okotoks Art and Learning Campus, Calgary Zoo, and the Stoney Nakoda Resort further cement his legacy as a cultural storyteller. These installations showcase Indigenous narratives and emphasize harmony with nature.
As an advocate for preserving Indigenous traditions and Treaty 7 commitments, Gordon's work explores themes of reconciliation and environmental stewardship. His vibrant art has been featured in numerous exhibitions, public spaces, and events, making him a prominent figure in Canadian art and cultural preservation.
Gordon’s work has also been featured in prestigious events such as the Calgary Stampede Western Art Gallery and Aboriginal Day in Jasper, Alberta, and in "Colouring It Forward’s Indigenous Art Calendars." With his murals and exhibitions, Gordon continues to inspire audiences, honour Indigenous traditions, and advocate for the environment through art.