About this Installation
Presley Mills is a Métis designer, illustrator and researcher based in Treaty 7 territory, Mohkínstsis (Calgary).
Presley’s creative philosophy centres on visual storytelling. Combining art and research practices is her way of learning and sharing. Her art specifically explores themes of Indigenous identity, decolonization, lessons from the natural world and art as space for both joy and grief. As a prolific maker, she works across many forms of art and craft in addition to her work as a graphic designer and illustrator.
The gallery features a collection of beadworks inspired by spring. The central piece is a Li Tāpis made for her dog Ricardito, a three-legged chihuahua. Li Tāpis’, meaning “small carpet” in French Michif and known as “tuppies” by the English and Scottish Michif, are traditional dog blanket regalia. Historically, these wool blankets were decorated with beadwork, silk embroidery, ribbon, yarn, bells and pompoms. Presley enjoys creating beadwork that follows her illustration style, while her drawing practice is influenced by traditional Indigenous floral designs.
About the Mini Gallery Program
The Northeast Mini Galleries Public Art Program includes 10 mini galleries, located at different community associations. The mini galleries feature 30 artists throughout the year — each exhibition showcases 10 local artists, selected by a local curator, for a four-month period.
The Northeast Mini Galleries program started in 2023 as part of the City of Calgary’s Northeast Public Art Initiative which brings several public art projects to Calgary’s northeast communities, supports local artists, enhances northeast neighbourhoods and reflects the people who live in the communities where the art will be located.
This initiative aims to build amazing spaces for people to come together and provides opportunities for local artists to showcase their talent while celebrating the diversity of artforms, people and cultures represented in northeast Calgary.
Information about the current exhibition and artwork featured in this gallery can be found on Calgary Arts Development's website.