Introducing ‘Kamloops BC’ from the Un-Earthed collection. This 11in x 10in x 5in sculpture is a poignant reflection. Created with 100% encaustic medium, each bundle is meticulously hand-carved, symbolizing a child from the residential school system who never returned home. Stacked one atop the other, these bundles represent years of earth covering up their stories. Every flaw and imperfection in the carving signifies how the church and government viewed these children, their families, and their culture. Yet, amidst these shadows, this piece shines a light. It ensures their stories will not be forgotten but shared, empowering their memory.

The Kamloops Indian Residential School was part of the Canadian Indian residential school system. Located in Kamloops, British Columbia, it was once the largest residential school in Canada, with its enrolment peaking at 500 in the 1950s. The school was established in 1890 and operated until 1969, when it was taken over from the Catholic Church by the federal government to be used as a day school residence. It closed in 1978. The school building still stands today, and is located on the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc First Nation.