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Inuit youth unveil latest mural in downtown Ottawa

Nunatsiaq Online
July 21, 2017

OTTAWA—A pink, two-headed owl the side of the Bell Media building in Ottawa’s Byward Market is more than just a decorative picture to brighten up the neighbourhood.

It’s a reminder that there are many ways of looking at, and interpreting, art and culture, says Parr Josephee, an 18-year-old artist and Embassy of Imagination mentor.

“Everyone has their own perspective and imagination,” Josephee says. “It gives other people some inspiration.”

Located in the middle of the wall, the surreal owl is just one detail in a colourful new mural entitled “Tunnganarniq,” which, translated to English, means “fostering good spirits by being open, welcoming and inclusive.”

The huge work features an Arctic scene which includes a bowhead whale, inspired by a story about a whale who was found with a 100-year-old harpoon inside its body.

The unveiling of the EOI Ottawa mural on July 16 resulted from a year’s worth of planning and training, and ten full days of painting in Canada’s capital. The project was done in partnership with the Ottawa School of Art as part of four murals for the Canada 150 celebration.

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