The vision for this project is to transform the main portico of the Yukon Arts Centre into a traditional baby belt made of LED neon by Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin artist Jackie Olson. Jackie took inspiration based on how the shape of the portico entrance to our building is the same proportion as a Yukon First Nation baby belt. Its warming glow will greet visitors. Having this at the door is symbolic of welcoming everyone into our space because, as Jackie said when asked about her motivation, “we sew baby belts to welcome new members of our family.”
Her design is rooted in the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin style of baby belt which frequently features 4-5 sizable/prominent floral motifs. Outlined in colour shifting LED neon the design is reminiscent of the pattern making stage of beadwork when the outlines are drawn on your smoked hide or warm melton cloth.
About the artist:
Jackie Olson’s heritage is one of Gwich’in and Danish descent. She was born and raised in Dawson City. She went on to the Alberta College of Art to complete her Bachelor of Fine Arts. Since her return to Dawson in 1992, Jackie has been busy in the arts scene. She has participated in many art exhibitions in cities such as Zurich (Switzerland), Munchen (Germany), Calgary, Banff, Red Deer, Yellowknife, Edmonton, Whitehorse and Dawson City.
