Conservation Halton presents exhibit by Raymond R. Skye at Crawford Lake

By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

Conservation Halton presented a new exhibit featuring the artwork and stories of acclaimed Tuscarora artist Raymond R. Skye. The exhibit will continue until Feb. 23, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Three Sisters exhibit will be displayed at the Deer Clan Longhouse gallery in Crawford Lake Conservation Area on weekends and holidays.

The exhibit offers visitors an immersive experience blending art and education to deepen their understanding of the role of agriculture in Longhouse cultures. Set in the contemporary gallery space within the reconstructed 15th-century Longhouse Village, it emphasizes the significance of corn, bean, and squash agriculture and explores the connection between people and the land.

The official exhibit opening took place on Nov. 9, 2024, where visitors had the chance to meet Skye and explore his work, which illuminates his talent for conveying culture through art. A selection of his pieces, showcasing his artistic legacy, is also on display.

“Much of my artwork reflects my cultural teachings. I believe those teachings continue to guide me, and help me to portray my culture with the authenticity and dignity it deserves,” Skye shared.

“Visuals are very important to the learning process for it helps the viewer to better comprehend the story behind the imagery. My ability to create such visuals allows me to enhance the history I want to portray.”

Conservation Halton expressed pride in hosting the exhibit with Craig Machan, Director of Parks & Operations, and said: “We are thrilled to be able to showcase Raymond R. Skye’s beautiful collection—for the community to enjoy. We have been privileged to work with Mr. Skye on a number of different projects and want to thank him for all his efforts to bring this unique, new exhibit to life.”

Tim Johnson, Associate Director for Museum Programs at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian, said: “The value of Raymond Skye’s artistry is immeasurable. In an information age where ideas and influences are transferred around the globe at the speed of light, it is vitally important that distinct cultures and nations have in place powerful and sustainable mechanisms for their preservation.”

“As an earnest and life-long student and teacher of Haudenosaunee culture, Ray’s contributions to his heritage are numerous and exceptional. His art documents the primary narratives of Haudenosaunee origin, emergence and history, enveloping substance within imagery that informs cultural awareness and inspires the people to forever remember. The presence of an artist like Raymond Skye in our community and nation is not only invaluable, it is essential!”