The Bear (Muskwa) is a symbol of courage, great strength. Power of the unconscious and inner knowing. Humility. Motherhood and teaching. Bear is the animal representing North (White) on the Cree Medicine Wheel.
Elizabeth has used Cree syllabics to describe each image. The syllabics were invented by missionaries in Canada (1830-1860) to create a written form of Cree and Ojibway. The primary purpose was to teach Christianity to Indigenous People. Elizabeth is a member of the Mistawasis Nehiyawak in Saskatchewan. Her work is inspired by the artistic traditions and storytelling of the Plains Cree.