Ashley Callingbull, the pioneering Indigenous woman who shattered glass ceilings as the first Indigenous Miss Universe Canada, is venturing into uncharted territories, this time reaching for the stars. Partnering with Dine-Cree designer Stephanie Eagletail, Callingbull is participating in Project Lunar Codex, an ambitious initiative to safeguard humanity’s cultural tapestry by sending artistic and literary treasures to the moon aboard a NASA spacecraft in January 2025. Among these lunar-bound artifacts will be miniature images of Callingbull showcasing Eagletail’s exquisite designs, a symbolic fusion of Indigenous artistry and space exploration. This celestial exhibition offers a profound opportunity to share Indigenous culture with the cosmos, a prospect both women find deeply moving and inspiring. Callingbull, reflecting on this unique experience, expresses a sense of wonder akin to becoming an astronaut, while Eagletail views the project as a testament to Indigenous resilience and a tribute to her ancestors who inspired her creative journey.
The Lunar Codex, conceived as a time capsule for future generations, aims to preserve a diverse range of artistic expressions, including literature, music, and visual arts, offering a safeguard against the potential loss of cultural heritage due to earthly challenges. Among the chosen works are pieces by renowned Indigenous artist Norval Morrisseau, whose profound contribution to Canadian art history is interwoven with a complex narrative of exploitation. The inclusion of Morrisseau’s work within the Lunar Codex serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by Indigenous artists, particularly the pervasive issue of art forgery that has marred Morrisseau’s legacy. Thousands of counterfeit paintings have been circulated, underscoring the systemic theft and misrepresentation that plagues the Indigenous art world. This unfortunate reality casts a shadow over Morrisseau’s authentic creations, prompting Callsingbull to advocate for reparations and reconciliation, emphasizing the need to recognize and honor Morrisseau’s true artistic brilliance.
In addition to their lunar aspirations, Callingbull and Eagletail harbor a more earthly mission: to raise awareness about the plight of Indigenous artists and the urgent need to protect their intellectual property. They plan to embark on a cross-Canada tour, bringing Morrisseau’s story to the forefront and illuminating the broader issue of art theft impacting Indigenous communities. The planned tour aims to educate and engage audiences, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous art and the challenges its creators face. The tour will serve as a platform to celebrate authentic Indigenous voices, highlighting their contributions while also exposing the exploitation they often endure. This initiative goes beyond showcasing artistry; it seeks to empower Indigenous artists and advocate for a fairer art market.
Callingbull and Eagletail envision their tour as a catalyst for change, a means to not only educate but also to inspire action. They believe that by sharing Morrisseau’s story and highlighting the broader issues of cultural appropriation and art forgery, they can empower Indigenous artists and stimulate dialogue about ethical practices within the art world. The duo emphasizes the importance of supporting Indigenous artists by purchasing authentic works directly from artists or reputable galleries. By promoting ethical art consumption, they aim to disrupt the cycle of exploitation and create a more equitable art market that respects and values Indigenous creativity.
To realize their vision for the tour and amplify the voices of Indigenous artists, Callingbull and Eagletail are actively seeking financial support from both the community and corporate sponsors. The funding will be crucial in enabling them to reach a wider audience and effectively communicate their message. They believe that by collaborating with sponsors who share their values, they can create a powerful platform to advocate for Indigenous artists and promote ethical practices within the art world. The funds raised will not only support the logistical aspects of the tour but also contribute to educational initiatives and resources aimed at protecting Indigenous intellectual property.
This multifaceted project transcends a simple artistic exhibition; it represents a potent combination of cultural preservation, social justice advocacy, and Indigenous empowerment. By sending their work to the moon, Callingbull and Eagletail are not just showcasing their art; they are asserting their presence on a global, even cosmic, scale. They view their involvement in Project Lunar Codex as a symbolic act, demonstrating the enduring strength and resilience of Indigenous culture. Concurrently, their planned tour serves as a grounded initiative, addressing real-world challenges faced by Indigenous artists. Through their combined efforts, they seek to celebrate Indigenous artistry, protect Indigenous intellectual property, and inspire positive change within the art world and beyond. This multifaceted approach reflects their commitment to honoring the past, empowering the present, and paving the way for a more equitable future for Indigenous artists.
