Wednesday 21 January
-5°C and Overcast Clouds
Agnes will close at 4:00 pm today.
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This exhibition is an AGNES OFF-SITE project, in partnership with Stauffer Library. For library hours, check Stauffer Library’s website.
Closing reception takes place on 18 December 2025, 1–3 pm.
All are welcome!
Spiritual kinships with all our relations transform our ways of being one with the land. This series of acrylic paintings on canvas by Kingston-based artist duo and life partners, Jaylene Cardinal and Dakota Ward, evoke spiritual connections with the land, water, sky, and all living beings on this Earth as kin to us as human beings. From the awakening of the bear who seeks out the first berries growing in the early days of spring, to the birds who sing greetings to the sun rising each morning, every inhale and exhale is a reminder of the reciprocal relationships that we are meant to maintain with the world we inhabit. Here the presence of the soul is made vivid, surrounding the earthly world in which we dwell and the world beyond, where our ancestors pass between a veil of perception.
W.C. Creatives is a dynamic Indigenous-led collective redefining traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation. Rooted in the rich cultural heritage of its founders, Jaylene Cardinal and Dakota Ward, W.C. Creatives embody a vision of artistic excellence, community connection, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Jaylene Cardinal, a celebrated Cree artist and entrepreneur from Saddle Lake First Nation, Alberta, brings a vibrant expression of Indigenous identity to the collective. Her work spans murals, fashion design, painting, and mixed media, all infused with the spirit and stories of her ancestors. Her public murals throughout Kingston transform spaces into powerful narratives that merge contemporary techniques with traditional Cree elements. Beyond her art, Jaylene teaches workshops and participates in community projects like Artfest and the Skeleton Park Art Festival, fostering creativity and cultural pride.
Dakota Ward complements the collective with his multidisciplinary artistry, from abstract acrylic paintings to writing and storytelling. As the founder of both W.C.Creatives and Fireheart Films, Dakota brings expertise in filmmaking, producing commercials, documentaries, and other projects. Each “Dakota Original” piece reflects his passion and individuality, making his contributions to W.C.Creatives deeply personal and unique.
Together, Jaylene and Dakota lead W.C. Creatives with a shared entrepreneurial mindset and a commitment to quality, beauty, and cultural integrity. Supported by their families, friends, and mentors, they continue to push the boundaries of modern Indigenous art while creating meaningful connections. Through their work, W.C. Creatives celebrate resilience, innovation, and the enduring strength of Indigenous traditions, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
