Peter G. Migwans: Artist, Teacher, Storyteller
M’chigeeng First Nation, West Bay, Manitoulin
World s Largest Fresh Water Island, Kina de/Canada
He used to say: “ I’m not trying to change the world”. Now he is saying: “I am trying to change the world, ….because of water. I want people of all nations to treat water with respect. This is the purpose of Water Teachings. Respect WATER.
Water Teachings sheds light on the importance of WATER, for all nations, for all ages, for our grandchildren, for the next 7 generations. This message comes from the Great Lakes of Canada, and applies to all. The Creator has blessed us with water. We are water. This is how we are all related. Care for Water. Treat Water with respect. Water is Life. Listen to Water. Appreciate Water. Say THANKS to Water. Love Water.
More About the Artist :
Born in 1938, M’chigeeng First Nation, West Bay, Manitoulin Island, Peter spent his childhood surrounded by water, family and elders. Listening to teachings and stories of the past, he was inspired at a young age to preserve the heritage of his people through art. His father Dominic was Chief, Eagle Clan. “Migwans” in Ojibwa, means “little feather”. Guided by spirit, Peter works best surrounded by family, with sounds of an active household. “Children’s voices, music, family and “my home” make me happy”.
“ Odawas traditionally were traders” he says, “migrating, meeting other nations and living beyond the confines of home”. From Odawa tradition to urban reality, Peter’s teachings remain positive, balanced, filled with acceptance and hope, wisdom gained through life’s lessons.
Sharing his love of Storytelling with each canvas, he was selected as Elder for Storytellers of Canada. He has participated in workshops and performances from Whitehorse and the Yukon to Oshawa, Ontario. He is frequently invited as elder keynote to First Nations workshops, gatherings, universities, colleges and schools. His contributions are greatly valued in healing circles, correctional institutions, supporting those in need. He relaxes with humour, enjoying friends and family.
Peter’s working career includes 30 years in the steel mills of Sault Ste. Marie. He was chairperson of the Sault Ste. Marie Indian Friendship Centre and a founding member of Neech-ke-when Homes, Native Housing. In 1993 his leadership was recognized by the Canadian Government with the presentation of “Canada 125 Medal”. He continues to be acknowledged by his community as an Elder, a spokesperson and spiritual advisor.
“Stories change from person to person, from one time to another” he says. “You will see things differently, depending on where you are. That’s the mystique!. While he used to say: “I’m not trying to change the world”, now he is saying: “ I am trying to change the world, because of water. I want people of all nations to treat water with dignity and respect.
This is the purpose of Water Teachings. Treat Water with Respect. From the shores of The Great Lakes of Canada, Water Teachings sheds light on the importance of WATER for all nations, for all ages, for our grandchildren, for the next 7 generations.
Water Teachings is a special series, to attract students (young and old) with their Teachers, to highlight: “A-Z Curriculum on Water”.
Peter's Work: Peter’s art work from many years, may be found on display: at the Royal Ontario Museum, The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, The Vatican from the time of Pope John Paul II and in private collections throughout Canada and the USA. In Michigan, Manitoba and Ontario, Peter’s work is appreciated by many.
Peter's Family: married 43 years, since July 21, 1962, Peter’s wife Cathy Migwans is from Garden River First Nations. She moved to Wawa, On at the age of 8.
As parents Peter and Cathy share their love with 4 children: Richard, Corrine, Keith, and Mona. They have (13) Grandchildren: Richard Jr., Newborn Twins: Frederic and Andrew; Dominic, Kenny, Peter, Christina; Jorden, Shayna, Jacob; Shawna, Jenell, and Watson.
In 2005 :This has been a powerful year for Peter and his family. With the passing of two beloveds: his sister Barbara Beam (maiden name: Migwans) and his nephew Carl Beam
(Barbara’s son, Peter’s nephew). Joy balances the sadness, with the recent arrival of twin grandsons, Frederic Peter Migwans and Andrew Peter Migwans. The power of the circle is celebrated with the arrival of Twins and the birth of this project:
WATERTEACHINGS FOR ALL NATIONS
The Creator Has BLESSED US with WATER
WE ARE WATER, We are all Related.
Take Care, Megwech, Peter Migwans
Peter may be reached at his home in Sault Ste Marie: (705) 942-2994
