Image: L. Gomes / PML / Indigenous artist Chase Gray painting his mural for the Chilliwack Mural Festival.

By Laurice Gomes

Chilliwack Mural Festival

More than a mural: Local Indigenous artist’s tribute that led to artistic journey

Jul 19, 2022 | 1:59 PM

CHILLIWACK — The pandemic forced lifestyle changes for many people—local Indigenous artist, Chase Gray, was no exception. Gray reignited his passion for art during the lockdown, and now his work will be showcased during the Chilliwack Mural Festival in August.

“I guess during the pandemic, I got bored and started drawing again,” the gifted artist said, as he worked on his mural in the District 1881 alleyway.

Gray explained that his uncle Mike had first taught him how to formline—a feature in the Indigenous art of the Northwest Coast of North America, distinguished using characteristic shapes referred to as ovoids.

Gray’s mural for the upcoming festival will blend traditional and modern elements.

Image: L. Gomes / PML / Gray’s work-in-progress for the upcoming Chilliwack Mural Festival.

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“I’m Musqueam and Tsimshian,” he said. “I do Pokémon and Northwest Coast formline style, and a lot of my other works are done in like a Salish style.”

The artist remarked that the driving force behind his inspiration to pick up the paintbrush again was when hundreds of unmarked graves were discovered a little over a year ago.

“I guess what got me going was honouring the 215,” he said quietly.

Image: L. Gomes / PML / Gray’s artwork honouring the first 215 unmarked graves found at the former Kamloops residential school in June 2021.

Gray did a drawing after the unmarked graves of children were found under a former Kamloops residential school. What started off as a tribute evolved into recognition of his talent across the country.

“That one was picked up and it went across Canada on billboards,” he said. “It was at a Canucks game on the ice.”

For younger generations looking to pursue art, Gray’s advice is simple—”have fun”.

“If you like art, just don’t give up on it,” he said matter-of-factly. “Pursue it if you’re really into it, and things might just happen eventually, because I gave up on it for so long, I was in the dumps, and I found it again, and now I’m here.”

Gray is set to complete his mural in the District 1881 alleyway on July 20.