Whispers on the Path is a duo of painters: Indigenous artist Annette Sullivan, and allied supporter Angela Found, residents of Southwestern Ontario. The pair focuses on the intersection of reconciliation, equality and identity exploration. Their approach is transformational through mutual allyship, with growth and expansion of heart and mind being driving factors.

The collaborative journey started in 2019 when Annette and Angela began discussions about possibilities of creating art focusing on shared spiritual connections. An artist union was forged in a ceremony. The work centers around social and personal transformation while giving voice to untold ancestral stories. While making the art, intrinsic bonds between Native and non-native (settler) communities grow strong. The spark of this union started a flame that grew into a fire. Visions from the sacred medicine walk are presented for viewing in this collection. Upon considering the complexity of reconciliation the pair discovered that they both collected Canadian postage stamps as children. They recognized that a postage stamp’s graphic border represents the political boundaries of the state. The art rearticulates historic scenes symbolizing national identity: “Canadiana”. Pre-Covid, the pair gathered to simultaneously paint on one canvas. In 2020, during lockdowns they revolutionized the working model, using video chats and idea sharing to consult on the progress, with couriers delivering canvases between home studios.

Angela Found studied Fine Art, Art History and History at U of Guelph, and is teaching the same as a secondary school teacher. Her sensitive and curious nature has led to ongoing explorations in Mahayana Buddhism, Universal / Celtic shamanic practice, mindfulness training, old European archaeology and religion, and earth-based goddess spirituality. Recent trips to Ireland and Northern Ireland, to the home of some of her relations and ancestors, has intensified the Spirit-led path connecting to creative energy. She seeks her own connections with the elements and landforms here. Whether painting outdoors or in the studio, her imagery comes as a gift. She is honoured to find a kindred heart in Annette with whom to explore a new way of relating.

Annette Sullivan is an indigenous artist self-identifying as Metis, who also carries First Nation and Inuit heritages of this land. Their Saulteaux Oji-Cree family settled in the Detroit Metis community now referenced as the Muskrat of the St Clair region. The artist received visual art training at Beal Art and Mohawk College specifically for technical aspects, followed by an internship in graphic design, and a career in sign manufacturing. In 2020, Annette was part of Station Gallery’s successful First Nation show. Successful solo shows have also transpired. Through the artist’s collaboration with Angela Found, Annette is thrilled to be putting brush to memorable work