Raven Debassige channels spirit, memory, and transformation into every stroke. From beadwork to natural pigments, her practice is rooted in tradition but always reaching toward something cosmic. In her upcoming mural expect movement, duality, and a little bit of magic.

How did you become an artist?

Growing up, there was strong creative inclinations on both sides of the family. I feel as though my path as an artist was always nurtured and encouraged—but I did not truly actualize within myself until about the eighth grade. During this time my mum had attended schooling and acquired her diploma in art and design. She both set a physical example of what the path of becoming an artist entailed and also showed me how art can nurture the soul. This was a pivotal event that showed me this doorway and set me on my own artistic journey.

In 2017 I attended Cambrian College’s visual art and design program. I gained valuable technical experiences but also began gaining a broader perspective of not just “what” I create but “why.” Art became a method of human connection and a way of making sense of reality—the act of creativity was an emotional and spiritual outlet. Reminding myself of “why” I do art has kept me moving forward.

How does this year’s theme resonate with your work?

The concept of transformation is something I closely identify with and have encountered in various facets while on my art journey. I feel with each project taken on or new medium experimented with, there is an opportunity to adapt, learn, grow, and transform. As primarily a painter, a pivotal experience that changed the way I create would be when I began to explore traditional crafting techniques. What was initially a desire to learn beadwork and quillwork has since evolved and transformed to land-based techniques to create art—including natural pigments, dyes, refining natural clays—and to cleaning/ processing quills, and spinning wool.

Are there recurring themes in your work?

A major recurring message in many of my pieces is the concept of duality and they often express multiple interpretations. Acknowledging the conscious self but also the unconscious self, I am always looking for a level of connection both with myself and with others. There is also a bit of chaotic energy with many of my pieces addressing various perspectives. There are usually contrasting themes, subject matter, and colours. The bird has been a theme I have been exploring as well. The bird has been a reccurring symbol in my life, and I often depict birds in pieces exploring spiritual connection.

How do your surroundings influence the direction of your murals?

I feel that for majority of my murals, every factor of my surroundings is considered and will influence the creation of my mural to be as it is needed or meant to be. Each art piece is created with purpose, whether it be to carry out a message, empower a community, or beautify a space. For community art such as murals, I aim for the art to honor and resonate with the community it resides in.

What do you hope people will feel after seeing your mural?

This mural is a bit playful and energetic in conveying the message, showing a couple of animals in a cosmic dance. I wanted this piece to be about embracing memories made and honouring those we share our memories with. I hope that people can celebrate human connection and relationship with each other.

What’s your process like?

For the process of starting a mural, I often like to incorporate both hand-drawn methods but also tend to utilize technology when I can. Using both methods helps me in planning the logistical details efficiently while also being sure I am adaptable to changes. When approaching a new mural, I try to take every detail and factor into account.

Do you have a dream project?

A dream of mine is to do an artist residency someday. I feel like it would be such a valuable experience and such a unique opportunity to meet with and collaborate with other artists. Another more personal dream project of mine would be to fully interior decorate my place (or even just a single room) with everything customized, with all the furniture art—whether curtains, rugs, furniture, cabinets, lampshades, decor, walls etc.

What advice would you give emerging artists?

Never undervalue the power of play. Acknowledge your inner child, from the curiosity and wonder to the honesty and intuition.

Big thanks to our partner Barrydowne Paint for their contribution in keeping our muralists stocked and our walls vibrant, one brushstroke at a time.