When Vancouver’s mayor and council are making decisions for the city’s future in decades to come, they’ll be reminded of the local First Nation’s ties and values.

Jordan Gallie, from Tsleil-Waututh Nation, is one of three artists who won a city-led contest to create works that are now hanging permanently in city council chambers. The pieces were unveiled recently as part of Vancouver’s effort to become a “city of reconciliation.”

Gallie’s work hangs between artworks by Chrystal Sparrow of Musqueam and Jody Broomfield of Squamish.

His piece consists of a seven-foot cedar plank with sandblasted tempered glass showing an image of a wolf, representing Tsleil-Waututh. Its paw is on city hall.

Also featured are maple leaves to represent Mother Earth, and the North Shore mountains with an eagle inside of them to represent his ancestors’ vision of sustainability.

“It’s a statement piece saying ‘We’re here; remember us; make good decisions for us,’” Gallie said. “When I heard about the chance to have this piece, I thought of the whole concept right off the bat.”

Gallie, who is 26, said this is his first major work, taking a couple of weeks to complete. He learned the basics of art when he took a jewelry-making course at Native Education College and said he has been learning more about Coast Salish-specific design over the past few years.

Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson said he expects the art will play a “powerful role in shaping our city and its future. We are honoured to have these art installations displayed at city hall, showcasing our region’s beautiful landscape and majestic scenery.”

Tsleil-Waututh Maureen Thomas called it “another step towards reconciliation” in Vancouver. “I’m proud of all our artists who continue to connect our nation’s history to our future through their artwork,” she said.

According to the City of Vancouver, each of the three artists was paid $19,000 for their work.

Gallie now is working on starting up an art business with his partner from Musqueam First Nation. He hopes to work in other mediums including more sandblasting as well as screen-printing and jewelry.

By Cara McKenna