The Power of the Medicine Wheel greets visitors

New Indigenous art mural unveiled at Peter Lougheed Centre

Story by Melanie Veriotes | Photo by Leah Hennel

CALGARY — A new Indigenous art feature wall now welcomes patients, families, staff and visitors as they enter the Peter Lougheed Centre (PLC) through the west entrance.

The mural was unveiled recently during a traditional ceremony with prayers, dancing and drumming and attendees including Indigenous leaders, Elders, the mural’s artist, Alberta Health Services (AHS) staff, physicians and site leadership.

The event marked the PLC’s ongoing work toward Truth and Reconciliation and reinforced its commitment to the creation of a welcoming environment grounded in respect, connection and culturally appropriate care.

Created by artist Keevin Rider of the Bearspaw First Nation, the mural — entitled The Power of the Medicine Wheel — is intentionally placed so all who enter from the west pass through the Medicine Wheel which symbolizes balance, reflection and care that honours the whole person.

The Medicine Wheel is a sacred teaching used by many Indigenous cultures. While teachings vary among Nations, it’s often understood to represent the connection between spiritual, emotional, physical and mental health. Together, this connection reminds us that wellness means caring for the whole person and the relationships that support them, not just treating the illness.

For Rider, contributing to the PLC space felt deeply personal. Having recently spent time in hospital himself, he reflected on the importance of compassion in healthcare.

“I’m honoured to be a part of this,” Rider said. “When you’ve been in hospital, you really understand the power of kindness, understanding and being connected to loved ones. The power is in the Medicine Wheel and what each section represents. When you live by these teachings, you feel peace within yourself.”

PLC Senior Operating Officer Nicholas Thain also spoke to the personal significance of the unveiling.

“Today was a powerful connection point for me. I made a commitment to the late Leo Pretty Young Man, Horn Society Leader (highest society in Blackfoot culture), to work to improve access, care and connection for Indigenous peoples. I believe this artwork, as you walk through the Medicine Wheel, does that for all.”

The unveiling also reflects a broader history of partnership and work that continues to evolve. Dr. Tyler White, former CEO of Siksika Health Services, reflected on how the installation connects to efforts that began several years ago.

He recalled being part of the 2021 ceremony in Strathmore, when the Siksika Nation flag became the first Indigenous flag to fly permanently at an Alberta Health Services hospital site, marking an important step in a longer journey of change.

Dr. White noted that, since then, progress has been made by building pathways, strengthening relationships, and working alongside many Nations and AHS team members.

Guided by Elders throughout this work, he said he was proud to be part of the unveiling and looks forward to continued cooperation to further improve access, care and connection for Indigenous peoples.